First Rhododendron

The first flowers of the rhododendrons are beginning to open. These early varieties are such a delight. I’ve lost the name of this one, but imagine that it is progeny of R. racemosum. The species plant is not yet in flower, but this has many similar characteristics. This flower is a wee thing and will open into a little ball of pink. This one, the first, is definitely the pioneer as there was talk of snow this weekend.