rhodora, (Rhododendron canadense), deciduous shrub of the heath family (Ericaceae), native to northeastern North America. It occurs most commonly in swampy regions and grows to about 90 cm (3 feet) in height. The plant has alternate, oval or oblong, smooth-edged leaves about 3.75–5 cm (1.5–2 inches) long. The undersurface is grayish and hairy. The showy rosy-purple flowers are about 4 cm (1.6 inches) wide and appear in spring before the leaves. The variety albiflorum has white flowers. (See also rhododendron.)