Rhododendron, Early, Roseshell Azalea, Election Pink Azalea 'Marie Hoffman'

The flowers are a clear pink, blooming in May here just before the leaves. The fragrance is strong and redolent of cloves.

...Read More This cultivar differs from the species in having dramatically larger flowers. I personally find they look much more like those of the ubiquitous evergreen Japanese azaleas and have less charm and elegance than the species---but many people will prefer it to the species.

Height is 2-8' and as wide as tall.

Tolerates high pH soils.

Dirr says this species is hardy to Z4. He also offers a rare judgement: that as an ornamental, this species is superior to R. periclymenoides and R. canescens.