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Catawba RhododendronRhododendron catawbiense
This evergreen shrub with glossy leather-like foliage is one of America's most beautiful plants.
Hardiness Zones
The catawba rhododendron can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 4–8. View Map
Tree Type
This shrub is considered both an evergreen shrub and a flowering shrub. It keeps its foliage year-round and blooms in a profusion of spring flowers.
Mature Size
The Catawba rhododendron grows to a height of 6–10' and a spread of 5–8' at maturity.
Growth Rate
This shrub grows at a slow rate, with height increases of less than 12" per year.
Sun Preference
Full sun and partial shade are best for this shrub, meaning it prefers a minimum of 4 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.
Soil Preference
The Catawba rhododendron grows in acidic, loamy, moist, rich, sandy, silty loam and well-drained soils.
Attributes
This shrub:
- Produces large clusters of lilac-purple, sometimes purplish rose, blossoms in the spring.
- Features glossy, leather-like leaves that are elliptic to oblong and 3–6" long.
- Keeps its foliage year-round.
- Grows in a rounded shape.