Rhododendron eastmanii is a very rare species growing in only a few locations in two South Carolina counties. The current known population is on the order of only 500 plants. Only recently discovered, and its existence first published in November 1999 by Dr. Kathleen Kron and Mike Creel, this is the newest native azalea species. Selected forms are being propagated and will be distributed to the the public in time, so please do not disturb any plants in the wild. Appreciate this rare and beautiful species, and please assist those who are trying to protect its native habitat.

Like several of the native azaleas in the "white group", R. eastmanii flowers after the leaves have expanded. It is clearly different from R. arborescens with the familiar red stamens, since R. eastmanii's stems are not smooth but are covered with hairs, or pubescense. In many ways, it is more closely aligned with the west coast native, R. occidentale, but is obviously different due to its geographical isolation and some other minor characteristics.

Recommended for further reading:

A new species of deciduous azalea (Rhododendron section Pentanthera; Ericaceae) from South Carolina, M Creel, K A Kron, Novon 1999 9:377-380

OUR EASTERN NATIVE AZALEAS IN THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY, Sandra F. McDonald, Journal of the American Rhododendron Society 55 no 3, Summer 2001