Genus guide
Rhododendron — 33 species
Part of the Heaths, heathers & rhododendrons family (Ericaceae)
Rhododendron is a vast genus of woody shrubs and small trees, encompassing both rhododendrons and azaleas, renowned for spectacular spring flower clusters in shades from white to deep purple. They demand acidic, humus-rich, well-drained soil and perform best in dappled shade or morning sun with afternoon shelter. Compact varieties like Yakushima Rhododendron suit smaller gardens, while Catawba and Yellow Azalea suit larger borders. All Lonicera species are toxic to cats and dogs; grayanotoxins cause drooling, vomiting, and cardiac effects.
All Rhododendron species we cover
- Augustine's rhododendron
- Azalea 'Firefly'
- Azalea 'Gibraltar'
- Azalea 'Hino-Crimson'
- Azalea 'Weston's Flamingo'
- Catawba rhododendron
- Catawba Rhododendron 'Roseum Elegans'
- Common Rhododendron
- Deciduous Azalea 'Gibraltar'
- Dwarf blue rhododendron
- Encore Azalea 'Autumn Twist'
- Korean rhododendron
- Kurume Azalea 'Hino Crimson'
- PJM rhododendron
- Rhododendron 'Blue Peter'
- Rhododendron 'Catawbiense Boursault'
- Rhododendron 'Cunningham's White'
- Rhododendron 'English Roseum'
- Rhododendron 'Fastuosum Flore Pleno'
- Rhododendron 'Nova Zembla'
- Rhododendron 'Pink Pearl'
- Rhododendron 'PJM'
- Rhododendron 'Roseum Elegans'
- Rosebay Rhododendron
- Royal Azalea
- Satsuki Azalea
- Swamp Azalea
- Sweet Azalea
- Tree rhododendron
- Williams rhododendron
- Yakushima Rhododendron
- Yakushima Rhododendron 'Yaku Princess'
- Yellow Azalea
Rhododendron — frequently asked questions
Are Rhododendron plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Rhododendron are not pet-safe. Of the 33 Rhododendron species in the Growli library, 33 (100%) carry a toxic or mildly-toxic ASPCA classification and 0 are pet-safe. Always confirm the exact species on its pet-safety page before trusting it around cats or dogs.
How much light do Rhododendron plants need?
Most Rhododendron do best in bright indirect light. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Rhododendron easy to care for?
Rhododendron are moderate to grow: the main requirement is a genuinely bright spot out of harsh midday sun. Get the light right and the rest of their care follows.
How many Rhododendron varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 33 Rhododendron species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Rhododendron, the rest follow closely.
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