Rhododendron 'P.J.M.,' or correctly the PJM Group, are rhododendron hybrids that resulted from a cross between R. carolinianum and R. dauricum var. sempervirens. Recent review of these species revises the taxonomy as R. minus Carolinianum Group and R. dauricum Semper-virens Group respectively.

PJM Group hybrids are generally compact, small-leaved, evergreen rhododendrons, noted for their exceptional winter hardiness, abundant pink, lavender or rose-colored blooms, and purple or bronze-toned winter foliage. While capable of reaching 15’ at maturity, they are more commonly noted for reaching 6-8’ in height after 10 to 15 years.

Originally hybridized by noted nurseryman Edmund Mezitt of Weston Nurseries, the seedlings were named after his father Peter J. Mezitt, founder of the nursery. Cultivars ‘PJM Elite’ and ‘PJM Regal’ are among the original grex siblings.

A minor midsummer re-bloom is common among these rhodos. I've found them to be far more tolerant of full sun exposure in my area than generally reported.

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