For people with a passion for rhododendrons (and travel), there’s an opportunity to visit these ubiquitous blooms in some of their far-flung homes.
North Island Rhododendron Society member Judi Murakami did exactly that when she attended the ARS (American Rhododendron Society) international convention in Bremen, Germany in May 2018.
Murakami will share that experience through words and images with NIRS members and visitors at the club’s monthly meeting, Tuesday, April 9.
One of the highlights for NIRS past president Murakami were tours of local gardens including the Bremen Rhododendron Park, the world’s second-largest collection of rhododendrons and azaleas.
The collection, begun in 1933 now has 600 species and subspecies.
Another highlight of the convention was a roster of international experts speaking on a range of topics as well as three days of touring Bremen gardens.
NIRS monthly meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month at the Comox United Church, 250 Beach Avenue with doors opening at 7 p.m.
Speakers open the evening with their talks or slide presentations beginning at 7:30, followed by a refreshment break and monthly club business. Visitors interested in membership are most welcome to attend.