Rosebay Rhododendron – Rhododendron maximum Seeds | 300 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. Found naturally from Georgia to Nova Scotia, it thrives in cool woodlands, along streams, and on moist, acidic, shaded slopes.

This large, multi-stemmed shrub typically grows 8–15 feet tall and wide, but under ideal woodland conditions may grow much larger and even take on a tree-like form. Its broad, glossy dark green leaves (4–12 inches long) provide bold texture and year-round interest. New growth is slightly glandular and may feel sticky to the touch.

In late June to mid-summer, impressive upright trusses of 15–30 funnel-shaped flowers appear. Blooms range from pale pink to nearly white with yellow-green spotting. These late-season flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies and brighten shaded gardens when many other shrubs have finished blooming.

Extremely cold tolerant and well adapted to dense shade, Rosebay Rhododendron is ideal for woodland gardens, naturalized plantings, shrub borders, and mass plantings. In the wild, it spreads naturally by layering, forming dense evergreen thickets.

This 300-seed quantity is ideal for larger landscape projects, native plant restoration, woodland plantings, or nursery propagation.

You will receive:
✔️ 300 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: Multi-stemmed 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 (consistent moisture required)
USDA Zones: 4–6
Drought Tolerance: Low
Bloom Time: Late June to July
Bloom Color: Pale pink to white

💡 Best suited for cool woodland settings. Protect from hot afternoon sun and strong winter winds. Mulch annually with pine needles or bark to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity. Avoid allowing roots to 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 aids germination).

3. Use a humidity dome and grow light.

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