The Evergreen Catawba Rhododendron

Imagine a broadleaf evergreen shrub that appears to wilt when below freezing but tolerates temperatures down to at least -20℉. This is possible due to the physiological process of thermotropism. Once temperatures rise above freezing, the leaves on the Catawba Rhododendron uncurl and appear as lush as ever.
This shrub takes center stage when blooming in late spring, which typically occurs well after the last hard freeze. The straight species often has purple blooms, while other cultivars and/or hybrids produce red, white, or pink flowers. Most importantly, this broadleaf evergreen shrub tolerates extremely low winter temperatures, while still providing lush evergreen interest, which then becomes the backdrop to the colorful late spring blooms.