Catawba rhododendron Ericaceae Rhododendron catawbiense Michx.   symbol: RHCA8
	Leaf: Alternate (appears whorled at the ends of branches), evergreen, simple, pinnately veined, entire, elliptical, 3 to 6 inches long, dark green above, light green to whitish below. Flower: Showy, deep pinkish-purple, funnel shaped, occurring in large (5 or more inches across) round clusters, appearing in late spring. Fruit: Many tiny seeds borne in a long stemmed, red-brown, 5-parted capsule, 1/2 inch long, maturing in fall. Twig: Stout, smooth or slightly pubescent, yellowish green, vegetative buds small, flower buds are large and egg-shaped. Bark: Thin, light grayish brown, becoming finely scaly with age. Form: A large shrub, 6 to 10 feet in height, equal spread, heavy dense foliage to the ground, becomes more open with age.
	USDA Plants Database Rhododendron catawbiense is native to North America. Range may be expanded by planting. See states reporting Catawba rhododendron (opens a new window).