ExplorePlants

Pacific rhododendron

Rhododendron macrophyllum

The Pacific rhododendron is a beautiful shrub with big, colorful flowers. It grows in forests and brings joy to everyone who sees it in bloom.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The Pacific rhododendron is a large, evergreen shrub featuring thick, leathery leaves. Its showy, bell-shaped flowers bloom in large clusters, typically vibrant pink to rose-purple, sometimes white. The impressive size of its flower trusses makes it stand out.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderEricalesFamilyEricaceaeGenusRhododendron
Pacific rhododendron
flowering trait badgeshrub trait badgespring_blooming trait badgeevergreen trait badge
Pacific rhododendron

Category

Plants

Rarity

Common

Danger

2/5 · Low

Snaps

Be the first to snap!

Interesting facts

It is the official state flower of Washington, chosen for its beauty.

Its nectar can create "mad honey" which can be toxic to humans!

Some wild Pacific rhododendrons have been known to live for over 100 years!

The name "Rhododendron" comes from Greek words meaning "rose tree"!

Special abilities

Ability

Evergreen Powerhouse

Pacific rhododendron has tough, evergreen leaves that help it photosynthesize and grow all year round.

Ability

Pollinator Beacon

Pacific rhododendron can attract bees and butterflies with its large, vibrant flower clusters to ensure reproduction.

Ability

Drought Defender

Pacific rhododendron has leathery leaves that help reduce water loss, surviving drier conditions.

Measurements & details

Height
100-900 cm
Spread
100-700 cm
Flower Size
4-7 cm
Bloom Season
Spring to early summer
Edible
No
Toxicity
High
Lifecycle
Perennial
Pollination Method
Insect

Ecological connections

pollinates

Western Bumblebee

Bombus occidentalis

collects nectar and pollen

pollinates

Western Tiger Swallowtail

Papilio rutulus

visits flowers for nectar

eaten by

Mule Deer

Odocoileus hemionus

may browse leaves, but it's toxic

shelters

American Black Bear

Ursus americanus

uses dense thickets for cover

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

2/5 · Low

Do not eat any part of the plant, as it can be harmful.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Pacific rhododendron?

100-900 cm

How wide does Pacific rhododendron spread?

100-700 cm

How big are the flowers on Pacific rhododendron?

4-7 cm

When does Pacific rhododendron bloom?

Spring to early summer

Is Pacific rhododendron edible?

No

Is Pacific rhododendron toxic?

High

What is Pacific rhododendron's lifecycle?

Perennial

How is Pacific rhododendron pollinated?

Insect

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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