In our Monday's edition of "Ask the Arborist" we take a look at another springtime favorite. When Azaleas bloom we know spring has finally arrived. Azaleas and Rhododendrons both belong to the heath family (Ericaceae) under the genus Rhododendron. Are photo here shows the brilliant purple flowers of a local Azalea. There are according to "The American Azalea Society" over 10,000 cultivars of Azaleas in the US, most have been propagated by cuttings. Its true, bees play a major part in the pollination of Azaleas. Take a close look at local Azaleas in bloom and you will most likely see Bumble Bees hard at work spreading pollen through Azalea shrubs. An interesting note in North America alone, there are over 48 species of Bumble Bees.
Enjoy the spring views and stay tuned for Tuesdays edition of "Ask the Arborist".
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
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