Rhododendron Bush Bursting with Blooms!

The first spring we lived in this house, I had no idea what one of the big bushes was in the front yard. 

 It burst into glorious lavender blooms, almost overnight, and I was told it was a rhododendron bush. 

 Every spring since then, I look forward to the rhododendron bush blooming. 

It's so spectacular to see but goes by kind of quickly so one must savor every second of its beauty.


Did you know that the rhododendron is the national flower of Nepal?  I didn't either until I started doing a little online research.

Also learned that the roots of the plant's name are Greek.  "Rhoden" means rose in that language and "dendron" is tree.  So, it comes out to rose tree!

Another little tidbit I came across is that one must never ever eat any part of this plant. It would be quite toxic!  

 As a matter of fact, people who have eaten honey made from the nectar of rhododendron have regretted it.  Uh oh. That doesn't sound too good, does it?

 I just love the sound of this plant's name when it rolls off the tongue...rhododendron! It sounds so unique and intriguing. 

When we were kids, my father used to make up stories for us before we went to bed. I remember how he'd scare the bazookers out of us with tales of the "rhododunti." 

 Watch out if the rhododunti was after you! We'd scream and scrunch down under our covers, quaking with fear. 

Now I wonder if my Dad's rhododunti was a derivative of this flower. Guess I'll never know.

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH RHODODENDRONS? WHAT ELSE DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THEM?