1)  Rhododendron arboreum hybrid

• The earliest, longest blooming rhododendron in the Arboretum (November-March!)
• Due to its floriferous nature, even in the coldest winters when it sustains bud blast from a deep freeze, it usually never fails to flower afterwards.
• Located in Witt Winter Garden, this rhododendron is worthy of naming and becoming a WPA plant selection.

2) Rhododendron ‘Cilpinense’

• Hybrid between parents of two Chinese spp., Rh. ciliatum and Rh. moupinense
• Compact, low-growing rhododendron that blooms in late February into March
• Nice grouping located in Winter Garden, bed F

3) Rhododendron mucronulatum ‘Cornell Pink’

• My personal favorite harbinger of spring rhododendron
• Species is native to Korea, a.k.a. Korean rhododendron
• Can’t miss ‘em beginning to flower at north end of Azalea Way, x from GVC

4)  Rhododendron ririei

• Large rhododendron, best in partial-shade for vivid magenta-purple color to show
• Native to Mt. Omei, W. Szechwan and flowers late February – early March.
• This specimen is located in Loderi Valley, southwest bed with hemlock cvs

 5)  Rhododendron strigillosum

• Rare, rich red flowering rhododendron in late February – early March
• Stiff, bristly leaf-stalks and narrowly-oblong leaves provide added texture and show

Several new specimens located in Witt Winter Garden.