Azalea Scientific Name | Classification and Identification

Azaleas are a popular ornamental plant known for their vibrant and colorful flowers. With over 10,000 registered cultivars, there is a vast array of azalea species to choose from, each with their unique characteristics. In this article, we'll delve into the scientific name of azalea, their classification, and how to identify different azalea species. Scientific Name The scientific name of the azalea is Rhododendron. It is a genus of flowering plants in the heath family (Ericaceae) and includes both evergreen and deciduous species. Rhododendron is derived from the Greek words 'rhodon' meaning rose and 'dendron' meaning tree. Classification There are approximately 1,000 species of Rhododendron, including both azaleas and rhododendrons. Azaleas are further classified into two groups - evergreen and deciduous. Evergreen azaleas have small, leathery leaves that remain green throughout the year, while deciduous azaleas lose their leaves in the fall. Identification of Di...