The first annual Rhododendron Species Symposium will be held on May 20th and 21st in Federal Way, Washington. Rhododendron enthusiasts, serious gardeners and horticulturists will discover up-to-the-minute information as well as the back story on how plant explorers have discovered an amazing variety of species from around the world.
There will be an emphasis on educational time and tours in the RSBG and its facilities during the rhododendron species flowering season, meeting with staff and other delegates in what has become an internationally renowned botanical garden, containing the most comprehensive collection of natural rhododendron species in the world.
From year to year the annual Rhododendron Species Symposium will occur at differing times during the spring blooming season. This year, enjoy the May flowering species as well as the intriguing new growth of those that bloom in early spring. In 2017 the plans are for a late April event and 2018 is planned for an early April Symposium.
Everyone Welcome!
We have made excellent arrangements with the Hampton Inn and Suites, where the hospitality will be most gracious. Lodging & meetings will be at the Hampton Inn, Federal Way, Washington.
FRIDAY, May 20
7pm Registration opens, followed by an informal Meet & Greet, including a hosted bar.
SATURDAY, May 21
9am – Registration opens
9:30 – 11:30am – The RSF Annual Members Meeting (AGM)
11:30 – 12:30 – Species Symposium – Mike Stewart, Moderator
12:30 Lunch
1:45pm Field Laboratory Horticulture Classes at the RSBG. Class registration is required.
6:30pm Banquet and speaker at the Hampton Inn
SUNDAY, May 22
Optional – visit local attractions
Museum of Glass in Tacoma – enjoy a group rate visit, but without a group! Show your RSBG membership card to receive discount admission: per person $12 (reg. $15). Artist-in-residence lecture is at 2pm.
Saturday afternoon Field Laboratory Horticulture Classes at the RSBG:
“Big-leaf Rhododendrons” with Steve Hootman
Steve will lead a tour of the big-leaf collection to examine and compare all of the species in cultivation including several so new that they have yet to be named! He will discuss specific identification traits and the best cultivation methods for each species; a detailed handout will be provided.
“Secrets of Species Propagation” with Dennis Bottemiller
Dennis will lead a detailed discussion with demonstrations of the best and latest techniques in Rhododendron species propagation. A full and in-depth tour of the entire nursery facility is included.
“Successful Cultivation of Rhododendrons – the RSBG Way” with Atsuko Gibson and Ben Meersman
Join RSBG’s expert horticulturists Atsuko and Ben in the garden to learn the best techniques for the successful cultivation of Rhododendron species as well as Himalayan Blue Poppies and Cardiocrinum (Giant Lilies). Watering, soil prep and pest and disease issues will be highlighted.
There will be a banquet and speaker on Saturday evening.
Saturday evening presentation:
“My Travels in Search for Rhododendrons” by Peter Cox
Peter has put together a brand new, never before seen lecture covering the entirety of his decades-long career as one of the foremost plant hunters in the modern era. Unfortunately, due to recent issues with poor health, Peter will not actually be able to attend our meeting in person. However, we will have an impressive video tour with Peter at Glendoick Gardens! Steve Hootman will present and lead us through the images and commentary provided by Peter – ranging from Turkey to China, Nepal and Bhutan. You do not want to miss this presentation!
You may register online to the right, or
Download the Species Symposium and mail to
PO Box 3798
Federal Way, WA 98063
REGISTRATION IS DUE BY May 10th.
Registration form Symposium 2016
Lodging, meetings and meals will be at the Hampton Inn & Suites in Federal Way, just 2 miles away from the Garden. Reserve your lodging by clicking here for our Species Symposium room rate of just $119.00 for a standard room or $139 for a suite. In addition to this special rate, guests will enjoy free parking and the inclusive hot breakfast.
If you wish to extend your stay call Crystal Santa Marina on her direct line: +1 253-733-3473 and request the group rate code “RSB” of $119 or $139 per night for your entire stay. This rate will be available to you on a space available bases for up to three days before or after our event.
The hotel’s shuttle van will take guests back to the airport when returning home, but does not pick up guests at the airport. They do have a special arrangement with Stita Taxi(206-246-9999) for airport pickup. Just tell them you are staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites to receive the flat rate of $34.00.
Species Symposium registration is will open in December 2016.
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Rhododendron Species Symposium
May 20, 2016 - May 21, 2016
Friday - Saturday
9:00 am
Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden
2525 S 336th St Federal Way, WA 98003
Location Map: See below