Rosebay Rhododendron – Rhododendron maximum Seeds | 50 Seeds | Hardy Evergreen | Woodland Native

Rosebay Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum), also known as Great Laurel or Great Rhododendron, is a hardy evergreen native to eastern North America. Found naturally 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 but can reach up to 20 feet or more in ideal conditions. Mature specimens may even become tree-like. Its broad, glossy dark green leaves (4–12 inches long) provide year-round structure and beauty in shaded gardens.

In late June to mid-summer, impressive upright trusses of 15–30 funnel-shaped flowers appear. Blooms range from pale pink to nearly white, often with delicate yellow-green spotting. Though lightly fragrant, they are highly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.

Extremely hardy and shade tolerant, Rosebay Rhododendron is perfect for woodland gardens, shaded borders, mass plantings, or naturalized areas. In the wild, it forms dense thickets through natural layering.

You will receive:
✔️ 50 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 (do not allow roots to dry out)
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 conserve moisture and maintain acidity.

🌱 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 (they require light to germinate).

3. Use a humidity dome and grow light.

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