Rhododendron Bush

Varieties of Rhododendron Bush

The Catawba rhododendron variety (Rhododendron catawbiense) is a broadleaf evergreen bush that has dark green, leathery foliage, and spring flowers that are great for attracting hummingbirds. This rhododendron shrub is easy to transplant, but it does require an acidic soil and prefers a shady location. Flowers can be white, lavender, rose or the red that hummingbirds so love. Catawba rhododendron bushes can reach a height of 6'-8' with a spread of 4'-6'. A rhododendron display is most effective when rhododendron bushes are massed together. Warning: toxic -- do not allow children to ingest any of the azaleas or rhododendrons. Zones 4-8. See photo #1 above.

P.J.M. rhododendron (Rhododendron x ‘P.J.M.’) is considered perhaps the hardiest of the rhododendrons, in terms of withstanding not only cold, but also heat and sun. Varieties of P.J.M. are available with either pinkish-lavender or white flowers. Because it flowers early, blooms are susceptible to frost damage. The green of its summer foliage yields to a mahogany color in winter -- a plus for those seeking year-round interest on the landscape.

The flowers of P.J.M. rhododendrons are smaller than those of Catawba rhododendron. P.J.M. rhododendron’s overall size is also smaller, as it reaches approximately 4’ x 4’ at maturity. Zones 4-8. Good choice for foundation plantings and rock gardens.