Rhododendron catawbiense Grandiflorum - Large-flowered rhododendron

The Rhododendron catawbiense Grandiflorum, is a vigorous and large-sized bush, with impressive flowers. Very close to a particularly sturdy American botanical species, it impresses with its resistance to cold and difficult conditions, as well as being spectacular in spring, when it almost disappears under a massive flowering. Gathered in generous clusters, its large light lilac flowers with golden eyes, speckled with brown at the throat, bloom without restraint. Under its lush and almost exotic appearance, this large 'rhodo' hides a flawless robustness.

Rhododendrons are plants from the heath family, just like heathers, preferring soils devoid of lime, with an acidic tendency, and humid climates. Rhododendron catawbiense is a botanical species originating from the U.S.A, from the mountain slopes of the southern Appalachians that extend from Virginia to Georgia. It is characterized by remarkable resistance to cold and diseases that can sometimes affect these bushes. Frequently planted in American gardens, it has been hybridized with species originating from the Himalayas that are less hardy, to produce some of our most spectacular rhododendrons.

'Grandiflorum', introduced to the market before 1850, forms a large bush with a spreading habit, wider than tall. Its growth is relatively fast, reaching an average height of 2.50m (6.6ft) and a spread of 3m (9.8ft) under good conditions. The branches are abundantly adorned with beautiful dark green glossy foliage, composed of evergreen leaves that are narrow, slightly arched, and ovate. The remarkably abundant flowering takes place from the end of May to mid-June. The large funnel-shaped flowers are gathered in large spherical clusters with a lush appearance. The colour of the flowers, mauve dotted with golden yellow and brown, is particularly bright in shade. This heathland bush is best in partial shade in cool, humus-rich, and well-drained soil with an acidic pH.

The Rhododendron catawbiense 'Grandiflorum'' can be used as a specimen or in mass plantings, in the company of other acid-loving plants. It can be associated with Chinese azaleas, with which it complements and tempers the warm tones, magnolias, andromedas (Pieris), mountain laurels (Kalmia), Japanese maples with green or purple foliage... In a large garden, it can even create a majestic hedge in the company of other large rhododendrons.