Rhododendron ponticum aka Rhododendron

Rhododendron ponticum, also known as common rhododendron or pontic rhododendron, is a stunning and hardy evergreen shrub native to the Iberian Peninsula in southwest Europe and the Caucasus region in northern West Asia. It belongs to the Ericaceae family and is closely related to popular plants like azaleas, blueberries, and cranberries. This densely branched shrub features tough, leathery, dark green oval leaves and produces terminal trusses of 10 to 15 purple, funnel-shaped flowers in the spring. Despite its toxicity to livestock due to the presence of grayanotoxins in its nectar, the Pontic Rhododendron remains a favored ornamental plant for its showy pink or purple blooms. With proper care, this flowering plant can thrive in various climates and provide years of beauty and pleasure. Its glossy, dark green oblong leaves and trumpet-shaped clustered flowers make it easily identifiable. Additionally, it is often used as a rootstock, demonstrating its resilience even when the grafted variety has perished.