This variable perennial shrub has multiple upright spreading branched stems that form a compact rounded habit. It has glossy green oblong leaves and the broad funnel-shaped pinkish-white fragrant flowers appear in a cluster during early summer.

Hardiness zones 7 to 9

Rhododendron occidentaleis naturally found in western North America from Oregon to southern California and extending into Mexico growing on the coast and into the adjoining mountains, along creek embankments and around wetlands tolerating higher altitudes and cold conditions.

It prefers an open sunny to partially shaded position and grows in most well-drained moderately fertile moist soils including serpentine with a pH 4.5-6.5 and is frost tolerant but drought tender.

The Western Azalea is grown for its flowers and low rounded habit. It is planted in parks and gardens along borders or used in native garden settings and is grown in containers. It's suitable for coastal and low mountain regions establishing in 3-4 years and is moderately long lived.ID 3605

Rhododendron(ro-do-DEN-dron) occidentale(OK-see-den-TAH-lay)

Rhododendron': from Greek rhodon + dendron - rose tree

Ericaceae(er-ek-AY-see-ee)
Bilberries, Blueberries,Cranberies, Heathers, Heaths, Rhododendrons, Wintergreens