Dedicated to my Grandma, Gladys, born in 1909, she died 4 months before her 100th birthday. She was the Mother of one, Grandmother of three, the great-Grandmother of nine and the Great-Great Grandmother of three and is missed by all. She outlived three husbands and a boyfriend, (who died a year before her!) She loved the Lord, her family, the great outdoors, traveled extensively and adored both flora and fauna.
Come spring, this surrounding area will be in bloom with native Pacific Rhododendrons. The Pacific Rhododendron is the state flower of Washington State. The name Rhododendron comes from the greek words "rodon" which means "rose" and "dendron" which means "tree", hence Rose Tree.
Interestingly enough, Pacific Rhododendrons thrive in disturbed habitats such as roadside embankments and recently deforested wildlands. In the wild, the color is usually pink, although variants exist.
All the parts of rhododendrons are dangerous, especially the leaves. After ingestion, symptoms include stomach irritation, abdominal pain, abnormal heart rate and rhythm, convulsions, coma, and even death. Honey made from the nectar of Rhododendron flowers is also toxic and should not be consumed.
If you have not done so already, don't forget to do the nearby, "Rhody Rhide", GCAD2. It is one of the oldest geocaches in Washington State.
Finally, a FTF for the ever-tenacious Seth Miller and Co-finder LibLabLady! Congratulations.