Wild Pacific Rhododendron, also called coast rhododendron, is a beautiful native shrub of the Pacific Northwest that starts to bloom in late April and early May on low elevations and late May to late June on higher elevations in the mountains. The flowering shrub grows along the coast of California, Oregon, Washington, and into British Columbia. Seeing these beautiful outbursts of pink color in the forests and on the slopes of the mountains is one of the greatest awards for local hikers who call them "rhodies."
Pacific Rhododendrons are most common on the Olympic Peninsula that lies in the north-western part of Washington state, being separated from the Seattle urban area by Puget Sound. The vast Olympic National Forest that covers an area of 628,115 ac (254,189 ha) features dozens of trails with rhododendron viewing. The most popular ones include Mt Walker and Mt Townsend trails with "rhodies" blooming in May and June.
Wild rhododendrons are also abundant along the Hood Canal, the natural fjord that stretches from Foulweather Bluff preserve to Union, Washington. Rhododendrons grow in drier parts of the Hood Canal in May. The flower likes sunlight, so you can surely find it in the coniferous forests around the area, as well as around open sunny places and along roads. Douglas fur forests and rhododendrons usually go together.
Rhododendron macrophyllum leaves and flowers are toxic. There have been cases of people poisoned by honey collected by bees in areas where rhododendrons thrive. The large rhododendron leaves can roll inward helping the plant to survive dry periods and freezing times.
Practical info
When do Pacific Rhododendrons typically start blooming in Washington?
On low elevations, Pacific Rhododendrons usually start blooming in Washington at the end of April or the beginning of May. On higher elevations in the mountains, they will start blooming later in May and blooming will continue to the end of June. Show more
Where is the best place in Washington to view wild rhododendrons?
In Washington state, the best place to view wild rhododendrons is Olympic National Forest. Mount Walker and Mount Townsend trails are both famous for rhododendron viewing. Rhododendrons commonly bloom from May to June in the region. Other locations in Washington, including Hood Canal, can also offer fantastic viewpoints of these wildflowers. Show more
How long do rhododendrons bloom in Washington state?
Pacific Rhododendrons bloom typically from late April to late June in Washington. The blooming time on the lowlands is usually earlier than on higher mountains. Depending on the elevation, precise blooming times vary from area to area. The blooming period can also be affected by climate change. Show more
What is the toxicity level of Pacific Rhododendron and how can it affect hikers and local fauna?
Leaves and flowers of Pacific Rhododendrons are toxic, containing grayanotoxins. The consumption of any plant parts can cause problems, such as creating toxic honey for bee populations or other animals becoming ill. Exposure to the leaves and blooms can cause skin irritation. Hikers should avoid touching and consuming rhododendrons when exploring affected sites. Show more
Are there any hiking trails in the Seattle area that showcase Pacific Rhododendrons?
Visitors to the Seattle area can take to the Rhododendron garden situated at Weyerhaeuser Corporate Headquarters in Federal Way, which hosts more than 10,000 Rhododendrons. For an added level of variety, hikers might choose to visit the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden also located in Federal Way. To experience the natural beauty of Pacific Rhododendrons, the Olympic National Forest trails are the preferred hiking spot and easily accessible from Seattle. Show more
