title: Rhododendron kesangiae
text: # Rhododendron kesangiae
  
  Rhododendron kesangiae is a rhododendron species endemic to Bhutan, where it grows at altitudes of 2,890–3,450 m (9,480–11,320 ft) in the fir and hemlock forests. It is called Tala (ཏ་ལ) in Dzongkha. It is a large shrub or tree that typically grows to 15 m (49 ft) in height, with leaves that are broadly elliptic to almost obovate, and 20–30 cm (7.9–11.8 in) long by 10–16 cm (3.9–6.3 in) broad. The flowers are rose pink, fading to purple.
  
  ## Etymology
  
  The species name kesangiae was given in honour to the Royal Grandmother, Ashi Kesang Choden (born 1930) Wangchuck of Bhutan.
  
  ## Flowering
  
  Rhododendron kesangiae flowers from April to May.
  
  ## Lower taxa
  
  * Rhododendron kesangiae var. album P. Namgyel & D.G. Long
  * Rhododendron kesangiae var. kesangiae
  