Rhododendron catawbiense, with common names Catawba rosebay, Catawba rhododendron, mountain rosebay, purple ivy, purple laurel, purple rhododendron, red laurel, rosebay, rosebay laurel, is a species of Rhododendron native to the eastern United States, growing mainly in the southern Appalachian Mountains from Virginia south to northern Alabama.

It is a dense, suckering shrub growing to 3 m tall, rarely 5 m. The evergreen leaves are large and broad. The flowers are large, violet-purple, often with small spots or streaks.

The species is named after the Catawba River.

Rhododendron catawbiense is cultivated as an ornamental plant, popular both in North America and in parts of Europe. It is primarily grown for its spring flower display.

These seeds are in limited supply.

Location: Sun or part shade

Type: Hardy shrub

Hardiness zones: 4-8

Seeds per packet: 10