Rhododendron menziesii, commonly known as Rusty Menziesia or Mock Azalea, is a deciduous shrub native to the cool, moist understory of coniferous forests in the Pacific Northwest, extending from Alaska through British Columbia to northern California and eastward to Wyoming. It typically grows up to 10 feet tall and wide, with a rounded form. The leaves are elliptic, hairy, and glandular, with a notable unpleasant odor when crushed. From late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers that can be pink, orange, or yellow-green, adding a splash of color to woodland gardens.

Rusty Menziesia is valued for its attractive flowers and its ability to thrive in cool, shaded environments, making it suitable for woodland gardens and naturalized areas. It prefers acidic, well-drained soils and can tolerate partial to full shade, requiring consistent moisture to flourish. While not commonly used, it can be an interesting addition to gardens that mimic its native habitat. It is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to root rot if drainage is poor.CC BY-SA 4.0