Leaves

• Leaves of the great rhododendron are 4 to 10 inches in length and are evergreen and leathery.
  
  

Flowers

• Flowers generally appear in large clusters of 5 to 8 inches wide and are pale pink, purple or white. Blooms open in late spring and early summer.
  
  

Height

• Great rhododendrons grow in the form of a small tree or large bush. Height varies between 5 and 40 feet.
  
  

Habitat

• Great rhododendrons grow wild in swamps and damp woodlands. They also can be found in conifer and hardwood or mixed forests, along mountainous areas.
  
  

Range

• The eastern and Midwestern states are home to great rhododendrons. The flowers are found from New England south to Georgia and west to Ohio.
  
  

Gardening

• Great rhododendron is a hardy plant that can be grown in colder climate gardens, withstanding temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius. Good drainage is necessary, and a layer of compost in winter will minimize damage to roots. They prefer partial-shade, and exposure to strong winter sun can cause severe moisture loss.