Pruning: Pruning should not be necessary if a rhododendron is planted in the proper location. For rhododendrons that require pruning, consult a professional for advice on the best method.
Species Profile: R. barbatum
Rhododendron barbatum is another of the numerous fine species collected and introduced to western gardens by Joseph Hooker during his historical two-year expedition (1848-1850) into the Sikkim Himalaya. Although this species was first scientifically recorded by Wallich in 1829 and introduced on a small scale possibly around that time, J. D. Hooker is rightfully given […]
Greer’s Guidebook
Greer’s Guidebook to Available Rhododendrons, Harold E. Greer, 1988. This revised edition features more than 2,000 rhododendrons, hybrids, and species are detailed including plant parentage, hardiness, and size. Advice on planting, care, disease, pests, and propagation is also covered. Marvelous new color photographs of 450 rhododendrons. Great for beginners!
Encyclopedia of Rhododendron Species
$87.50 Special 50th Anniversary Sale: $75.00 USD Offer expires Dec. 31, 2014 The Encyclopedia of Rhododendron Species, Second Edition Peter and Kenneth Cox. 1997 This valuable collector’s resource, by world-renowned Rhododendron experts and plant explorers Peter and Kenneth Cox, is an ultimate reference guide to species rhododendrons. It brings together all the temperate species (excluding […]
R. stenophyllum–in bloom in the Rutherford Conservatory
R. goodenoughii–in bloom in the Rutherford Conservatory
R. goodenoughii is blooming in the Rutherford Conservatory. It was named after Goodenough Island in Papua New Guinea where this plant comes from.
R. himantodes–in bloom in the Rutherford Conservatory
R. ochraceum–in bloom at the RSBG
This species is little known and extremely rare. Visit the garden to see this precious rhododendron! Many more rhododendrons are in bloom as well. For more information on this species, see our New Introduction R. ochraceum page.
‘Designer Genes’ hosta available in our nursery!
We have the exciting ‘Designer Genes’ hosta available in our nursery! Its incredible yellow-charteuse green leaves emerge from contrasting deep wine red shoots. Imagine this stunning hosta planted in a pot with the delicate fern Adiantum venustum and placed where you can admire it as you sip your ice tea this summer!
2012 Blue Poppy Day
2012 Spring Plant Sale
Early Blooming Rhodys
Early blooming rhododendrons such as R. dauricum, R. ririei, and R. moupinense are in bloom!
Gallery – RSBG Classes
At the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden we offer classes for various ages. Currently our classes are held during our special events. Check out our current class list.
Gallery – 2012 Ice Storm
In January of 2012, the Federal Way area endured a severe ice storm, and the RSBG lost several trees and plants as a result. Here are a few of the pictures.
Conservatory Opening!
Conservatory Opening Aug 30, 2010 — After years of planning and fundraising, as well as months of construction and planting, RSBG will unveil the new Rutherford Conservatory, the latest addition to its multi-featured, research and education garden. The Rutherford Conservatory, named in honor of the late Francis C. Rutherford – long time RSBG member and […]
Rhododendron Species, Vol 5, 2010
2010
The cultivation of Rhododendron species introduced in the modern era of plant collecting, by Steve Hootman
How northern hemisphere geologic history and paleoclimate shaped the populations of Rhododendron macrophyllum and Rhododendron catawbiense, by Michelle Stitzer, Chuan Cao, and Benjamin Hall
People, plants, and places: Standish & Noble and James P.C.Russell, by John Hammond […]













