There are some plants that are so eye-catching that even when traveling along the highway, I get the question from a traveling companion "What's that plant"? Now, my 60 mph plant identification skills are not 100% accurate, but there are a few plants that are unmistakable. Clarissa's "60 mph pick" : PJM RHODODENDRON Classic, charming, hardy, and one of the first signs of spring. PJM Rhododendron has beautiful lavender-purple blooms are out before most other plants. Design tips for placing PJM Rhododendron in the landscape: PJM Rhododendron works great in foundation plantings. It grows slowly and reaches 3-5 ft. tall, and likes partial sun. Mix it in with an evergreen planting to add a pop of color. It is an excellent choice for borders & fence lines, and adds joyful spring color to a north facing front entry. Gardening tips for PJM Rhododendron: Provide organically rich, well-drained, acidic soil. A thick layer of mulch keeps roots cool and is preferable to planting in landscape rock. Avoid planting in harsh afternoon sun exposures and water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Feed with an acid fertilizer after bloom. Pruning time: spring after flowering.