Also known as American Rhododendron · Big Rhododendron · Giant Azalea
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Great rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) is a large, evergreen shrub native to eastern North America, prized for its abundant pinkish-white flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shade.
Consistent Moisture
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures but prefers cooler climates.
Acid-Loving
50% intensity
Use fertilizers formulated for acid-loving plants in early spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Parts of plant contain grayanotoxins, which are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Rhododendron maximum prefers consistently moist soil. Water deeply during dry spells, especially when young and during flowering. Avoid waterlogged conditions, as this can lead to root rot.
Morning watering is ideal to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Prune lightly after flowering to remove spent blooms and shape the plant. Heavy pruning is generally not recommended as it can reduce flowering for the following year.
Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches at any time.
Propagation is typically done by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in mid-summer. Rooting can be slow and requires high humidity. Grafting onto suitable rootstock is another method, often used for specific cultivars.
Container-grown Rhododendron maximum generally requires repotting every 2-3 years into a slightly larger container. Use a well-draining, acidic potting mix.
Repotting is best done in early spring before new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Great Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum)
Where Great Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
| Species | Rhododendron maximum |
Similar in genus Rhododendron
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
