Rosebay rhododendron in Tennessee Mountains

Rosebay Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) grows in dense woodland shade along cool mountain streams and on moist, rocky slopes. This Southern Appalachian native is extremely winter hardy to -15° to -20° F. It is a late-season bloomer reaching its peak around late June.

Rosebay grows large, 15 to 20 feet in height. On some sites it is not unusual to see tree-like rosebay rhododendrons to 40 feet. The plant habit is spreading, broader than tall. Leaves are large, 4 to 12 inches long, glossy dark green. The new growth feels sticky to the touch.

The inflorescence (truss) of 15 – 30 funnel-shaped flowers. Each 5-lobed flower is approximately 1 inch long, white to pale pink (occasionally deep pink to rose red). The flower trusses lack fragrance.

Rhododendrons prefer a moist, compost rich, acidic soil which drains well. Organic based acidic mulches, such as pine bark or pine needles, will cool and conserve soil moisture.

Many hybrids, using Rosebay as a parent, includes a personal favorite ‘Maxecat’ which blooms in early June from eastern Pennsylvania south to northeast Tennessee. Blooms open light pink and fade to white.