USDA Zones: 4 - 8; varies by species and variety
Light: sun - partial shade; most prefer at least some shade in the South
Form: Rounded/Oval, Upright/Vase-shaped
Height: 3 to 5 feet
Width: 3 to 5 feet
Flower Colors: pink, white, red, yellow, lavender
Bloom Time: early to late spring

Special Features:
Attractive Foliage
Attracts Hummingbirds
Flowers
US Native/Wildflower
Winter Interest

Rhododendrons and azaleas both belong to the genus Rhododendron, and share many characteristics. Both groups thrive in well-drained acid soil and light shade. One point of difference is the shape of their flowers.

Azaleas have funnel shaped blossoms, while rhododendrons have trumpet-shaped flowers. And although there are literally hundreds of species and varieties in the Rhododendron family, the most popular are noted the brilliance and quantity of spring flower display.

Notable Varieties
P.J.M. hybrids; Zones 5 - 7. These vase-shaped or rounded shrubs are among the most reliable bloomers, with lavendar pink flowers in spring in the North; in the South, it flowers through fall. Its dark green, leathery leaves turn deep purple in the fall.

Dexter hybrids; Zones 5 - 8. These dense, 6-foot-tall shrubs produce yellow, pink, or red flowers and dense foliage. The variety 'Wheatley' has pink flowers with yellow markings. 'Scintillation' has pink flowers. Dexter hybrids are well-suited to the mid-South region.

Roseum elegans (Zones 4 - 8) is one of the most cold-hardy rhododendrons. It produces large leathery medium green leaves and rosy-pink flowers in late Spring.

Care
Remove spent blooms. Protect from winter winds. If necessary to renew, cut back hard in late winter. Feed with a fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants as directed on the box.