Does Rhododendron Occidentale Attract Bees?
The Pacific, western or honeysuckle azalea -- Rhododendron occidentale -- is one of only two rhododendrons native west of the American Rockies. More tolerant of non-acidic soils than most azaleas but faltering where summers are hot and humid, it makes an ornamental plant for a sunny woodland garden. Does this Spark an idea?
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Features
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The fragrant, creamy- to peach-white flowers of the Pacific azalea occur in mid-spring and do attract bees. Generally speaking, all rhododendrons are pollinated either by bees, wasps or ants. This azalea may be frequented by honeybees, bumblebees or other smaller native bee species.
Considerations
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Besides attracting bees to its flowers, the green comma and hoary comma butterflies use the western azalea's foliage as a food source for its caterpillars. These butterflies do not visit the blossoms, however.
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Warning
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All parts of the western azalea contain the plant toxin andromedotoxin. No parts of the plant are edible. In fact, honey made from the flowers of this plant or any azalea or rhododendron shouldn't be consumed, as the toxin persists in the nectar that becomes honey.
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