rhododendron

noun

rho·​do·​den·​dron ˌrō-də-ˈden-drən 

: any of a genus (Rhododendron) of widely cultivated shrubs and trees of the heath family with alternate leaves and showy flowers

especially : one with leathery evergreen leaves as distinguished from a deciduous azalea

Illustration of rhododendron

Examples of rhododendron in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, lilacs, and many other woody plants provide flower power in the early days of spring when these hydrangea plants are just beginning to send up new leaves and shoots. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Sep. 2024

She was inspired by the buds of magnolia and rhododendron in the Arboretum to depict a sacred geometry shape on her embroidery. —Simon Perry, Peoplemag, 26 July 2024

The list of susceptible species is long and includes rhododendron, viburnum, redbud, holly, redtwig dogwood, fruit trees, camellia, lilac, St. Johnswort, crapemyrtle, rose, mountain laurel, arborvitae, cherrylaurel, and juniper. —Miri Talabac, Baltimore Sun, 18 July 2024

The 20-acre terraced garden blooms with over 500 plant species, including 150 azalea varieties, a rhododendron forest, assorted camellias, a fern valley, and arched citrus tree tunnels. —Jaclyn Degiorgio, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin (linnaeus), going back to Latin, "oleander, a plant of the Black Sea region described by Pliny whose honey is toxic (probably Rhododendron ponticum)," borrowed from Greek rhodódendron, from rhodo- rhodo- + déndron "tree" — more at dendro-

First Known Use

1657, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing rhododendron

• elepidote rhododendron
• lepidote rhododendron
• rosebay rhododendron

Kids Definition

rhododendron

noun

rho·​do·​den·​dron ˌrōd-ə-ˈden-drən 

: any of a genus of trees and shrubs of the heath family that often have leathery evergreen leaves and showy clusters of yellow, white, pink, red, or purple flowers

Etymology

from scientific Latin rhododendron "rhododendron," derived from Greek rhodon "rose" and Greek dendron "tree"