A North American native, Rhododendron maximum, is an evergreen shrub known for its mid-summer blooming period, later than other Rhododendrons and Azaleas. Huge clusters of white to light pink blooms appear between June and August, attracting various bee species, butterflies, and hummingbirds. While a fantastic addition to the dappled or part shade pollinator garden, Rhododendron maximum is toxic and thus deters deer and rabbits from nibbling on its leathery evergreen foliage. Rhododendron maximum is known commonly as Rosebay Rhododendron, White or Great Laurel, and Great Rhododendron. Able to reach a whopping 15’ in height at maturity, it’s no secret as to why this large evergreen shrub has been dubbed the Great Rhododendron – it is the largest native North American Rhododendron known. Rosebay Rhododendron makes a perfect addition the winter garden, with its interesting, open, spreading habit and evergreen foliage, although it requires consistently good drainage year-round and somewhat acidic soils to truly thrive. Use as an understory shrub in the woodland garden, as a specimen in the part shade native garden, or in a group along the shady border or wood line.

• Category: Woody Ornamentals
• Hardiness Zone: 3
• Height: 15 Feet
• Spread: 8 Feet
• Bloom Color: Lavender/Purple, Pink, White