J20160411-0091—Rhododendron macrophyllum—RPBG (26124171290)

Description:

Rhododendron macrophyllum—Pacific rhododendron. One of the loveliest of all flowering shrubs, native or not. The state flower of Washington, first selected in a women's only election in 1892 preceding the 1893 Chicago World Fair and reconfirmed by legislation in 1948. Valued as a garden plant for its low water requirements. All rhododendrons are regarded as toxic by the California Poison Control System. Photographed at Regional Parks Botanic Garden located in Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley, CA.