Yellow Azalea (Rhododendron ‘Narcissiflorum’)

common name:

Yellow azalea, deciduous azalea

scientific name:

Rhododendron

‘Narcissiflorum’ (Ghent hybrid cultivar)

Yellow flowers in full bloom on a bush, with sunlight highlighting their vibrant petals.

Yellow azalea (Rhododendron ‘Narcissiflorum’) in full bloom on May 1, 2026, in the Maxwell Arboretum on UNL’s East Campus.

Image Creadit:

Trey Lamkins, Graduate Research Assistant

Yellow azalea (Rhododendron ‘Narcissiflorum’) is a striking deciduous azalea known for its double, bright yellow flowers that resemble small roses. Blooming in mid to late spring, the fragrant blossoms appear in dense clusters before or alongside the emerging foliage, creating a vivid display in woodland and garden settings. This cultivar is part of the historic Ghent hybrid group, with parentage unknown and development dating to before 1855, reflecting early European breeding efforts to improve ornamental azaleas.

Charecteristics

Plant type:

Deciduous shrub

Hardiness Zones:

5a, 5b, 6a, 7, 8

Light Needs:

Part Shade

Water Needs:

Moist

Space Requirements:

6 -12 feet

Height Requirements:

6– 0 feet

Spread Requirements:

5–8 feet

Bloom Color:

Yellow

Bloom Time:

Spring

Wildlife Attraction:

Butterflies

Companion Plant Tolerance:

Shallow-rocky Soil

Varieties

‘Gibraltar’

‘Gibraltar’ is another Ghent hybrid azalea known for its vibrant orange blooms and excellent cold hardiness. It provides a bold contrast to yellow forms and thrives under similar growing conditions.