Had to make a blogpost for class here u go. I will clean up this page later lolll

Rhodedenron macryphyllum-

Rhodedendron macrophyllum, commonly known as the pacific rhododendron, is a woody shrub native to the pacific northwest of America- specifically the near the sound in Washington, along the Oregon coast, and in the northern coast of California. Seen commonly in parks and yards alike, its beautiful flowers and hardiness make it a great addition to any garden.

While its leaves appear whorled near stem tips, the older leaves are alternate. Between this and its height of up to fifteen feet, the rhododendron has a distinctive look even when it isn’t flowering. It has umbel Inflorescence, with a wide funnel shaped corolla, bracts, 5 petals and 10 stamens. Its petals are partially fused at the base, and the edges of the petals often appear slightly crimped. It has a superior ovary and produces capsules as its fruit.

Rhodedendron macrophyllum was named in 1792 by Archibald Menzies, a Scottish botanist and interestingly, surgeon. This would have been before pain killers or germ theory, but still required a degree. This education allowed him to join a voyage to Hawaii and Vancouver as the ship’s naturalist. During his expeditions, he also made the 18th century’s largest collection of lichen, climbed Mauna Loa, and brought monkey puzzle trees to England.

This rhododendron protects itself from insects with andromedotoxin, a neurotoxin in its necter, leaves, and stems. Despite the toxins in its nectar, it is still pollinated by native bees such as the buff-tailed bumblebee, who can tolerate the toxin. It is also the state flower for Washington. It prefers to grow in fairly dry, open forests where it can get partial sunlight and water. It is especially useful for erosion control, making the plant a good fit for environments that have been damaged.