Rhododendron schlippenbachi
This deciduous shrub is sometimes called Royal Azalea. The leaves grow in whorled formations on the branches and leaf out late April/early May strongly tinged in pinkish bronze as seen here. The flower clusters are a variable pink – a little different on each plant.

Plant in partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. It is not your typical Azalea in that it does best in slightly alkaline soil. It will grow 4-8’H & W. Hardy in Zones 4-6.

Interesting fact The name honors Baron Alexander von Schlippenback who collected this plant in 1854 from Korea where it grows naturally as an understory shrub.