PLANT OF THE MONTH

June 2022 — Knap Hill or Exbury Azalea

Latin Name: Rhododendron sp.

Family: Ericaceae

Type: Deciduous Shrub

Origin: England

Location at Bloedel Reserve: Swan Pond above Rhododendron Glen

Garden Uses: Flowering Specimen

Fun Fact: Originally developed in the late 1800s, Knap Hill and Exbury Azaleas quickly became one of the most popular azaleas in the market.  These wonderful shrubs not only have amazing fragrant flowers, but also have stunning fall color ranging from orange, to yellow and red.  The specimens we have here on the grounds were originally planted in the 1980s. Bob Zimmermann of Chimacum Woods helped our staff ID this particular specimen.