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Aromi Sunrise Azalea

Rhododendron 'Sunrise'

$24.00 Sold out
1 Gallon USDA Zones 6–9 Part Shade Matures 4–6 Feet

Pickup currently unavailable at Aiken Nursery

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Roots wrapped in moist soil and padded for safe transit
Grown and shipped from our nursery in Aiken, SC
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Bred by the renowned Alabama hybridizer Dr. Eugene Aromi, ‘Aromi Sunrise’ is a brilliant deciduous azalea that captures the best of its parentage — the bold color of Rhododendron ‘Hiawatha’ (Knap Hill) and the native resilience of Rhododendron austrinum. Introduced in 1987, this hybrid reflects Aromi’s dedication to creating garden-worthy azaleas suited for Southern landscapes.

In mid-spring, ‘Aromi Sunrise’ comes alive with a glowing display of large, tubular funnel-shaped flowers. Each 2-inch bloom features brilliant yellow petals highlighted by a vivid orange-yellow blotch, with wavy edges that catch the light. Held in flat trusses of up to 14 flowers, the blooms emit a soft fragrance that draws in pollinators and garden admirers alike.

Photos courtesy of Mike Creech and Bob Stelloh

Will this plant thrive in your zone?

Plant Profile
At a glance
Hardiness
USDA Zones 6–9
Sun
Part Shade
Soil
Well-drained, Acid
Mature size
Height 4–6 Feet · Spread 2–6 Feet
Growth rate
Moderate
Seasonality
Deciduous
Flower, Fruit & Foliage

Flowers:

Tubular, funnel-shaped blooms with gracefully wavy edges, each measuring about 2 inches across. The brilliant yellow petals are accented by a vivid orange-yellow blotch, adding depth and vibrancy. Flowers are held in flat trusses of up to 14 blooms, creating a striking mid-spring display.

Foliage:

Elliptic leaves with a broadly acute tip and a tapered, cuneate base. Each leaf reaches approximately 2⅜ inches in length and displays a moderate olive-green hue. The undersides are softly coated in moderate yellow-green hairs, lending a subtle texture and visual interest.

Care

Read our full care guide

Light:

Prefers dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. Too much direct sun can scorch the foliage, while too much shade may reduce flowering.

Soil:

Thrives in well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.0 to 6.0 is ideal. Avoid heavy clay or soggy soils, which can lead to root rot.

Watering:

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during establishment and dry spells. Once established, ‘Aromi Sunrise’ has moderate drought tolerance but benefits from deep watering during prolonged dry periods.

Mulching:

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch (pine bark, pine straw, or leaf mold) around the base to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and protect shallow roots. Keep mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.

Fertilization:

Feed lightly in early spring with a slow-release, acid-loving plant fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as native azaleas are sensitive to excessive nutrients.

Pruning:

Minimal pruning is needed. If shaping is desired, prune immediately after flowering to avoid removing next year’s buds. Remove any dead or crossing branches to maintain health and airflow.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

Woodlanders Growing Process

Because most of our plants are grown from rooted cuttings — alongside seed, air layering, and grafting chosen for each variety — you receive a stronger, true-to-type plant that establishes quickly in your garden.

Sustainable Growing Practices

Raised on organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management — never harsh chemicals — your plant arrives healthy for your garden, your family, and the pollinators they feed.

Supporting Local Biodiversity

Every purchase gives back. We donate to the Aiken Arboretum and support local wildlife conservation, so growing your garden helps protect the wider ecosystem too.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.
Grown in Aiken, South Carolina
At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders
Healthy plants, ready to thrive
Success, made simple
Healthy plants, ready to thrive

Your plant arrives carefully packed and ready to settle in. Unpack them promptly, give them a day or two to acclimate, then plant following the notes we include — that’s all it takes. Clear care guidance comes with every order, so success is the easy part.

Read the care guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.