Rhododendron calendulaceum (Michx.) Torr. var. cuprea

Possibly a cultivar of Rhododendron calendulaceum (Michx.) Torr. but more likely to be a naturally occurring variety and treated as such here.  Figured in Loddiges’ Botanical Cabinet as Azalea calendulacea cuprea it has copper-coloured flowers:  ‘This is a native of North America, first introduced by Mr. Lyon, in 1806.  It is perfectly hardy, forming a large bushy shrub, flowering in May and June.  It may be increased by layers, which require two years at least to make sufficient roots.  It should be planted in a border, in half loam and half peat soil.  How admirable is the beauty of these flowers! how bountiful the Almighty Hand which formed them!’  [LBC no.1394/1829].  The Botanical Register figures Azalea calendulacea var. subcuprea, the ‘Copper-coloured Highclere azalea’, which, although somewhat similar to Loddiges’ plant, is probably distinct.  This Folio includes a long dissertation on the Highclere azaleas by the hybridizer, Mr. Gowen, with a long list of resulting named varieties.  [BR f.1366/1830].