rhodora
rhodora, (Rhododendron canadense), deciduous shrub of the heath family (Ericaceae), native to northeastern North America. It occurs most commonly in swampy regions and grows to about 90 cm (3 feet) in height. The plant has alternate, oval or oblong, smooth-edged leaves about 3.75β5 cm (1.5β2 inches) long. The undersurface is grayish and hairy. The showy rosy-purple flowers are about 4 cm (1.6 inches) wide and appear in spring before the leaves. The variety albiflorum has white flowers. (See also rhododendron.)
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica This article was most recently revised and updated by Melissa Petruzzello.
Citation Information
Article Title:
rhodora
Website Name:
Encyclopaedia Britannica
Publisher:
Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc.
Date Published:
26 February 2021
Access Date:
November 13, 2026