It's important to select rhododendrons and azaleas that are suitable for the site where they will be planted.  Soil type, soil drainage, max and min temperatures, amount of sun/shade and wind conditions all are important factors when choosing plants.

Among the many rhododendron species and hybrids, flower color, flower truss size and shape, bloom time, leaf shape, texture and color, and plant height and habit should be taken into consideration during selection.  You can find a rhododendron to fit any particular garden situation. To assist in finding plants suitable for your local area, the ARS website has information for more than 2000 different rhododendrons and azaleas conveniently provided in searchable lists.  One can search by flower color, height at 10 years, bloom time, cold hardiness, plant name, fragrance, species or hybrid, deciduous or evergreen leaves to find a list of plants for any landscape need.  Detail descriptions of plant shape, leaf shape, texture and other distinguishing characteristics are provided in the search results.  Most varieties include a photo showing the plant's flowers and leaves. 

Another resource provided at the ARS web site are the "Good Performer" lists.  ARS chapter members have compiled lists of excellent performing rhododendrons and azaleas that have beautiful form, foliage and flowers.  The selected plants have performed well in members' gardens and are recommended to others who live where various ARS chapters are located. 

Consider also the ARS Rhododendron of the Year (ROY) awards given to outstanding plants in eight different regions of the United States.  Awarded  plants have excellent foliage and flowers, have an attractive plant habit, are pest and disease resistant and are cold hardy for the region.

Plants can be procured from your local nursery or garden center or from a reputable mail order firm.  A searchable list of rhododendron and azalea growers is included at our web site to aid in locating sources to purchase plants.  Sometimes varieties not suitable for your area are found at local discount stores or garden centers, so care should be exercised when selecting your plants.

A number of ARS Chapters hold yearly springtime plant sales (see show and plant sale calendar).  Often unusual and uncommon varieties are found at the plant sales.  Plant shows held by many ARS Chapters provide an opportunity to view up close many different types of rhododendrons and azaleas.