Great laurel (Rhododendron maximum)

Great laurel, also known as Rosebay rhododendron, Summer rhododendron

The great laurel, or Rhododendron maximum, is an evergreen shrub native to North America, particularly thriving in the Appalachian Mountains. Known for its clusters of soft white or pink blooms and shiny oval leaves, this resilient plant prefers the cool, moist environments of mountain slopes and stream banks.