A representative of a Group in Abbotsford, BC, is seeking to preserve a healthy grove of rhododendrons in the area that are 60-80 years old from a development proposal. I was asked "How long do rhododendrons live?" Obviously, many factors are involved, but the Group feels that if a few hundred years are common, their case would be strengthened. Would it help if the species or hybrid type were known? Louis.
The life expectancy depends on the species and variety, but many types of rhodies can live for hundreds of years. Rhododendrons are common, if the ones in the grove are rare heritage varieties, it would be much easier to make a case to save them.
Nowadays many are being hammered by mildew, aren't in that great a shape. I'd like to see what condition these are in before supporting heroic efforts to save them. Then there is armillaria, phytophthora...