The Rhododendron Species Foundation and Botanical Gardens, located just south of Seattle in Federal Way, is a 22-acre woodland filled with over 10,000 rhododendrons and native conifer trees. Given the fact that the Pacific Northwest's climate is perfect for Rhododendron, this is the perfect place to get your fill of the amazingly diverse plant species (and some Azalea, too). Park experts explain that the "flowering season" usually starts in early January and sometimes runs as long as until May. The gardens are open every day except Friday during the summer and admission is free.
Just south of Seattle, Washington is the Rhododendron Species Foundation and Botanical Garden, a non-profit organization and home to one of the largest rhododendron collections in the world. Over 10,000 rhododendrons grow in a beautiful 22 acre woodland of tall native conifers. The flowering season in western Washington begins in early January and continues through late July with the majority of species in bloom from March to May.
As the sun warms the earth, rhododendron flowers burst forth in shades of pure white to soft pink, clear yellow, brilliant red, and deep violet. Complementing the rhododendrons are numerous companion plantings of ferns, primroses, iris, heathers, maples, magnolias, and many other exotic and unusual plants. These plants add year-round interest and color including fiery fall color in autumn from the many different types of deciduous trees and shrubs.