Rhododendron

The rhododendron (Rhododendron maximum) has been the official state flower of West Virginia since 1903, widely appreciated for both its looks and hardiness of the wood. The great laurel is native to the Appalachians and is an evergreen shrub, used to protect steep watersheds and shelter wildlife. Its exceptionally hard wood is occasionally used for special purposes.

Related

 * Rhododendron flower