Rosebay Rhododendron – Rhododendron maximum Seeds | 150 Seeds | Hardy Evergreen Woodland Shrub

Rosebay Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum), also known as Great Laurel or White Laurel, is a hardy evergreen shrub native to eastern North America. Naturally found from Georgia to Nova Scotia, it thrives in cool woodland settings, along streams, and on moist, acidic slopes.

This large, multi-stemmed shrub typically grows 8–15 feet tall and wide, though mature specimens may become tree-like and reach much greater heights under ideal conditions. Its glossy, dark green evergreen leaves (4–12 inches long) provide year-round structure and make an excellent backdrop in woodland gardens.

In late June through mid-summer, upright trusses of 15–30 funnel-shaped flowers appear. Blooms range from pale pink to nearly white with yellow-green spotting and attract hummingbirds and butterflies. While not strongly fragrant, the flowers are showy and long-lasting.

Extremely cold tolerant and shade adaptable, Rosebay Rhododendron excels in woodland borders, naturalized areas, mass plantings, and large shade gardens. In the wild, it forms dense thickets through natural layering.

You will receive:
✔️ 150 Rosebay Rhododendron seeds
✔️ Botanical name: Rhododendron maximum
✔️ Open-pollinated seeds
✔️ Untreated seeds
✔️ Secure packaging

🌿 Growing Information
Common Names: Rosebay Rhododendron, Great Laurel, White Laurel
Plant Type: Evergreen flowering shrub
Growth Rate: Medium
Mature Height: 8–15 feet (can grow larger)
Spread: 8–15 feet
Sun: Part shade to dappled shade
Soil: Acidic, humusy, organically rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained
Water: Medium (keep consistently moist)
USDA Zones: 4–6
Drought Tolerance: Low
Bloom Time: Late June to July
Bloom Color: Pale pink to white

💡 Prefers cool woodland conditions. Protect from hot afternoon sun and strong winter winds. Mulch annually with pine needles or bark to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity. Avoid letting roots dry out.

🌱 Seed Germination Instructions
Rosebay Rhododendron seeds are extremely tiny.

1. Surface sow indoors at 55–64°F in acidic potting mix or peat.

2. Do not cover seeds (light required for germination).

3. Use a humidity dome and grow light.

4. Mist gently to keep evenly moist (not soggy).