Pacific Rhododendron
The Pacific Rhododendron, Coast Rhododendron or Big Leaf Rhododendron, is a broadleaf evergreen rhododendron species native to western North America.
Pacific rhododendron is found along the Pacific Coast from British Columbia to Monterey County in California. It is widely distributed in the Coast and Cascade Mountain Ranges. Pacific rhododendron is less abundant in the Coastal Mountains of Washington and northern Oregon and more common south of the Siuslaw River
Its scientific name, Rhododendron macrophyllum, the genus name means "rose tree", and the species name means "large leaves". These leaves, as any gardener knows, are thick and leathery as adaptations to climate stress. They have the ability to roll inward during dry or cold periods. Hairs on the underside of the leaves protect them from dessication and help insulate them from freezing.