A rhododendron is a flowering shrub or small tree known for its spectacular clusters of colorful blooms. In late spring, rhododendrons burst into flower with dense bunches of blossoms in shades of pink, purple, red, white, or yellow. Each cluster might contain dozens of individual flowers, creating a showy display that can cover an entire bush.

Rhododendrons are evergreen plants, meaning their thick, leathery leaves stay green year-round rather than falling off in autumn. Wild rhododendrons grow naturally in mountainous regions, particularly in the Himalayas, but gardeners around the world plant them for their stunning spring color.

Rhododendrons can range from small bushes to trees over 30 feet tall. Some species are so hardy they survive in harsh mountain conditions, while others thrive in mild coastal climates. Rhododendrons are the state flower of West Virginia and Washington, and entire gardens have been dedicated to growing different varieties of these plants.