The coast rhododendron is the official state flower of Washington — a native shrub that bursts into clusters of rosy-pink blooms each spring.

• Official flower: Coast rhododendron
• Scientific name: Rhododendron macrophyllum
• Year adopted: 1892
• Native range: the Pacific Northwest

About the coast rhododendron

Washington women chose the rhododendron in an 1892 vote to represent the state at the World’s Fair, years before they could vote in general elections; it was made the official state flower in 1959. Its large trusses of pink flowers are a signature of the region’s forests.

Where it grows

The coast rhododendron grows wild in the forests of western Washington and the Pacific Northwest, thriving in acidic, well-drained soil and blooming in late spring.

Washington state flower FAQs

What is the state flower of Washington?

Washington’s state flower is the coast rhododendron (Rhododendron macrophyllum), which it adopted in 1892.

When did Washington adopt its state flower?

Washington designated the coast rhododendron as its official state flower in 1892.

What color is Washington’s state flower?

Washington’s coast rhododendron produces large clusters of rosy-pink blooms in late spring.

Explore more

See the state flowers of all 50 states, discover national flowers, or find your birth flower.