Native Rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) were planted when many of our homes where built. Unfortunately many have been removed and replaced with hybrids and non native plants. Same unfortunate fate has happened to Mountain Laurels.
These shrubs do get leggy over time. Combining with other smaller natives is great way to revive this fantastic native. Native Rhododendrons can also be rejuvenated by pruning down down to about 2-3 foot height, however this needs to be done with care because of slow growth.
Photo is of native Rhododendron with Costal Leucothoe (Leucothoe axillaris), Smooth Hydrangea (Hydrangea arborescens), and volunteer understory of ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris)
