Native Plants from American Beauties
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Rhododendron maximum 'Independence'

Rosebay Rhododendron

This large native shrub features long, strap-like foliage and spreading, woody branches that form a big, thick, spreading presence. Big buds open in early July, far later than most Rhododendron, with big, beautiful clear pink flower trusses. A superb plant for woodland areas, cover and nesting.

Benefits

Big evergreen form offers loads of critter cover
Huge flower trusses early summer
Thrives in shaded, wooded areas
Great for sprawling border areas
Perfect nesting spot for many songbirds

Height
8-12 Feet

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Spread
8-12 Inches


Native Range
wooded, hilly areas from Maine south to Georgia and west to Tennessee and Ohio

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Native Trivia

In order to protect itself from cold temperatures, Rhododendron leaves roll up in temperatures below 25 F to conserve moisture and unfurl when warm temperatures return.


USDA Hardiness Zone 4-7

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Characteristics & Attributes

Plan Sub Group
Medium to Tall Shrubs
Exposure
Filtered Shade
Morning Sun / Afternoon Shade
Shade
Soil
Well-drained
Wide soil tolerance
Soil Moisture Preference
Average
Moist but well-drained
Attracts Wildlife
Butterflies
Songbirds
Bloom Time
Late Spring / Early Summer
Habitat Collection
Butterfly
Dry Shade
Songbird
Foliage Color
Green
Uses
Evergreen
Fragrant
Hedge, screen
Mass plant
Native to
Alabama
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Georgia
Kentucky
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New York
North Carolina
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Vermont
Virginia
West Virginia
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