What Time is it in Nature?

We have recently made a delightful discovery at Prairie Ridge.  Two Pinxter Azaleas Rhododendron periclymenoideshave been found growing on the stream bank along Prairie Ridge’s southern border.  

Pinxter Azaleas are significant not only for their aesthetic beauty but also because they’re native to this region.  The pink flowers bloom in April before their leaves appear.  These flowers are most likely pollinated by large butterflies, moths, bees, and possibly hummingbirds. 

During your next visit to Prairie Ridge be sure to look for this blooming beauty before the flowers disappear.

The blooms of a Pinxter Azalea can be seen from behind a nearby tree

The distinctive pink flowers have long stamens and pistols

The flowers are adapted for pollination by large insects

© 2007 NC Museum of Natural Sciences :: Email