Tree Information
Common Name: great rhododendron
Scientific Name: Rhododendron maximum
Native/Naturalized: Native to Virginia
Database ID: 2020
Status: alive
National Champion: no
Virginia Champion: yes
Circumference: 22 in.
Height: 23 ft.
Crown: 13 ft.
Points: 48
Date Last Measured: 2023
Last Measured by: Alex Adams, John Peterson
Date First Measured: 2013
Comments:
2023: This rhododendron is on its last leg. Most of the canopy has been defoliated and there is obvious frost cracking in the trunk.
Composite trunk circumference at 4.5' above ground: Stem 1: 18", Stem 2: 12"
2013: The tree seems reasonably healthy and sound. There were some minor trunk scars from campers, etc. Previously measured by Carmean, Williamson, Kirwan at 18", 24', 25', 48 points.
![](pics/Rhododendron_maximum_id2020_2023.jpg)
Location of Tree
Tree is located in: Smyth
Land Owner: U.S. Forest Service
GPS Coordinates: 36.72372, -81.49249
Directions: Hurricane Campground, Mt. Rogers Recreation Area, Site #22. Grows directly in front of a northern red oak next to the campsite platform.
Contact Information
Contact Name: Byron Carmean
Contact Email: rockplantrn@gmail.com
Contact Address: rockplantrn@gmail.com
Contact Phone: 757-934-0588
Nominators
Original Nominator(s): Byron Carmean, Jeff Kirwan, and Gary Williamson