The name Rhododendron literally translates to "rose tree". The species R. catawbiense is found throughout the Appalachian Mountains. Not only is it the state flower of West Virginia, it is also on the state flag.
Rhododendrons are shrubs and small trees. They can be evergreen or deciduous, and are known for their showy flowers.
| Plant Types: | Perennial, Shrub |
| Light: | Partial Shade to Partial Sun |
| Height: | 15 feet to 20 feet |
| Width: | 15 feet to 20 feet |
| Zones: | 4a to 9b |
| Bloom Color: | Orange, Pink, Purple, White, Yellow |
| Bloom Seasons: | Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Attracts birds, North American native |
| Shape: | Rounded |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Nursery Select Miracid® Water Soluble Plant Food |
| Want to know where Great Rhododendron will thrive in your house or garden? The EasyBloom Plant Sensor will give you a plant's-eye view of your environment to measure soil, sunlight, temperature and humidity. |
Watch a Video > Learn More > Buy EasyBloom > |
Sow seeds in soil that is acidic as soon as the seeds are ripe or in early spring. Maintain the temperature between 55 and 65°F. It should be noted that Rhododendrons readily hybridize and seeds collected from your garden may produce offspring that do not closely resemble the parents.
Rhododendrons do best with filtered sunlight. Generally, these plants will need more protection from the sun as the climate gets sunnier and hotter. They do best in cooler, temperate climates that have sufficient rainfall.
Blooms in early Spring. There are many varieties of Rhododendrons and Azaleas that come in many different colors and styles.
Need fast-draining soils that are rich and acidic. Does best if the soil also retains sufficient quantities of water (amend soil with organic matter to do so). These plants need more air in the root zone than most plants do. Plants that are yellowing and that have leaves that are dropping are most likely sitting in water and the roots are drowning.
Established plants require acidic fertilizer to flourish well before bloom. When the floral buds begin to swell in early Spring, apply another treatment of acidic fertilizer. When the flowers begin to fade and new leaves are sprouting, feed again.
Prone to whitefly, lace bugs, scale, caterpillars and aphids. Susceptible to powdery mildew, leafy gall and root rot.