Catawba Rhododendron
Rhododendron catawbiense
Last reviewed: June 2026
Catawba Rhododendron is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
72"–120" H × 60"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, GA, KY, NC and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds, butterflies
Catawba rhododendron is a large evergreen shrub native to the Appalachian mountains. It produces clusters of purple-pink flowers in late spring and maintains its glossy green foliage year-round. This slow-growing shrub prefers acidic soil and partial shade conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Catawba Rhododendron is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Large mature size requires adequate spacing
- May need occasional pruning to maintain shape
Wildlife value
Host plant for brown butterfly.
The nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds during the May-June bloom period. The evergreen foliage provides year-round shelter for birds and small wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Catawba Rhododendron need?
- Catawba Rhododendron grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Catawba Rhododendron bloom?
- Catawba Rhododendron blooms in May and June.
- Where is Catawba Rhododendron native?
- Catawba Rhododendron (Rhododendron catawbiense) is native to AL, GA, KY, NC and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Catawba Rhododendron toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Catawba Rhododendron is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Catawba Rhododendron toxic to cats?
- Yes. Catawba Rhododendron is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- What butterflies or moths does Catawba Rhododendron host?
- Catawba Rhododendron is a larval host plant for brown butterfly.
- Is Catawba Rhododendron HOA-friendly?
- Catawba Rhododendron is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Catawba Rhododendron and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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