Rhododendron catawbiense is a hardy, native evergreen shrub prized for its showy clusters of purple to pink flowers in spring. It thrives in moist, acidic woodland conditions and provides year-round structure in shaded gardens.
Overview
Form
Rounded
Growth Rate
moderate
Size
6–15′ tall × 5–12′ wide
Dormancy
evergreen
Tolerances & Soil
Zone 4aZone 9b
1471013
ColderWarmer
Zone range: Zone 4a to Zone 9b
Seasonality
Bloom Season
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Season of Interest
Spring
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
early successionalmid successional
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southeastern United States (Appalachian Mountains)
Native to: North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
Function & Care
wildlife benefitpollinator nectaryhedgerow
Establishment & Care
Establishment
moderate
Maintenance
moderate
Propagation
seed, cutting, layering
Notable Cultivars
PJM hybrids derived from R. catawbiense are exceptionally hardy to Zone 4 with compact growth and magenta flowers. The Catawbiense Boursault and Catawbiense Album cultivars are classic selections valued for disease resistance and consistent flowering.
