R. spinuliferum

The "Firecracker rhododendron" is a nickname given to this unusual rhododendron species. The foliage is very textured and turns from green to a nice bronze color in the winter.  In early spring, from February into March, the red blossoms open, 3-5 per cluster with tubular red-waxy flowers and protruding pistils. Yes, they do look like firecrackers, and they last for months!  We highly recommend this unusual rhododendron for those looking for the something really different.