The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Ken Janeck Yakushima rhododendron

Family: Ericaceae (heath family)

Distribution: Species native to Japan

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen shrub

Comments: A broadleaf evergreen growing to 4' tall and twice that in width. It has a compact spreading habit forming a tight mound. Leaves are dark green and have a wooly indumentum (covering of fine hairs) on their underside. The compact flower clusters open in May and are red in bud, opening pink then fading to white upon aging. Reportedly hardy to -15ºF. Received the American Rhododendron Society's Award of Excellence in 1969. Use in the foundation planting or mixed border.