Rhododendron macrophyllum (Pacific Rhododendron)

Adding glorious color, Rhododendron macrophyllum (Pacific Rhododendron) is a large, upright branching, evergreen shrub boasting spectacular trusses of 10-20 bell-shaped pale to deep pink flowers, 2 in. across (5 cm), in mid-spring to mid-summer. This is the showiest flowering shrub in the forests of western North America, with flower clusters that nearly rival in size and number those of its cultivated relatives. The charming blossoms appear above large whorls of deep green, egg-shaped to oblong leaves, 3-8 in. long (8-20 cm), with a smooth, leathery texture. The shrub is erect to spreading with stout branches. It tends to grow tall with an open habit when in the shade of large conifers but will stay smaller and more compact in areas where it gets more sun. Often grown as an ornamental, Pacific Rhododendron is a splendid and dramatic large foundation plant that is native to western North America.

• Grows up to 4-15 ft. tall and wide (120-450 cm).
• Performs best in part shade in humus-rich, moist, acidic, well-drained soils. Protect from frost to prevent damage to flowers. Shelter from strong winds. Mulch annually with leaf mold to retain moisture, control weeds, and cool the soil. Do not allow plants to dry out.
• Perfect for beds and borders, wall side borders, city gardens, cottage gardens, and woodland gardens.
• Keep an eye out for vine weevil, rhododendron and azalea whitefly, rhododendron leafhopper, Pieris lacebug, scale insects, caterpillars and aphids, powdery mildew, honey fungus, silver leaf, and Phytophthora.
• Prune immediately after flowering.
• Propagate by seed, by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, or by layering in autumn.
• Native to western North America.
• Rhododendrons contain poisonous substances and should not be ingested by humans or animals.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.