Rhododendron minus - piedmont rhododendron

Height: to 6'
Width: to 6'
Light Needs: part shade to full shade
Water: average to moist, but well-drained
Flower color: pink
Bloom time: May, June

This is a compact evergreen shrub with attractive flowers. The leathery leaves can grow to four inches long. The flowers are produced in clusters at the stem tips. This native rhododendron grows better in Piedmont gardens than most hybrid evergreen rhododendrons. It requires good drainage, especially in clay soils. Mulch helps keep the shallow roots moist and cool. Its evergreen foliage provides winter protection for birds and other animals. Hummingbirds, butterflies, bees and other insect pollinators visit the flowers. Deer may browse this plant in winter when other food is scarce.