Martin, Edwin M.
Rhododendron catawbiense Michx.
Catawba rosebay, Purple rhododendron, Red laurel, Catawba rhododendron, Mountain rosebay
Ericaceae (Heath Family)
A mound-shaped, broadleaf
evergreen shrub, 6-20 ft. tall, with stout, picturesque, ascending branches. The foliage is dense, thick, glossy and dark green, often in winter developing a yellow-green cast. The numerous bell-shaped, rosy-lilac flowers occur in dense, terminal clusters. An
evergreen shrub with clusters of large, rose or purple-lilac, funnel-shaped flowers.
This attractive flowering
shrub with southern affinities forms dense thickets on mountain slopes. Frequently used as an ornamental, it has been hybridized with the less hardy Himalayan species to produce some of our most spectacular showy rhododendrons.
Image Gallery:
3 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Shrub Flower:
Fruit: Size Class: 12-36 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Pink , Purple
Bloom Time: Apr , May , Jun
Distribution
USA: AL , GA , KY , MA , NC , SC , TN , VA , WV
Native Distribution: VA to KY, s. to GA & AL
Native Habitat: Mountain woods; rocky slopes
USDA Native Status: L48(N) Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: Shade
Soil pH: Acidic (pH<6.8)
Soil Description: Various well-drained soils.
Last Update: 2009-02-18
