The Rhododendron Maximum, or “Great Laurel”

The Rhododendron Maximum, or “Great Laurel” was selected in 1903, by the Legislature, and  a vote by pupils of the public schools, to be the state flower of West Virginia. It is a shrub and may be recognized by its large, dark evergreen leaves and delicate pale pink or white bloom, mottled with either red or yellow flecks. I don't think they could have picked a better choice, had I hand picked it myself. I find it to be beautiful.