Great Laurel

Rhododendron maximum

Great Laurel (Rhododendron maximum) is a landscape plant valued for its form and structure as much as its bloom. It reaches roughly 25 ft at maturity and blooms in mid spring. Match it to full sun to part shade and water on a normal schedule until it is established. One caveat worth knowing before you plant: parts of this species carry a toxicity flag (moderate), so keep it away from pets and kids who chew on landscape plants. Given a spot that matches its light and water needs, it is a dependable, low-drama addition to the yard.