The North Carolina Arboretum will host the annual show of the American Rhododendron Society’s Southeast Chapter from noon until 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 30 and May 1.

Hundreds of blooms will be featured at this yearly event. Spring and summer blooming rhododendrons and azaleas are always favorites of the weekend. Society members will be on hand to answer questions, and a guided tour of the Arboretum’s Azalea Repository will be offered each day.

Glenn Palmer, longtime volunteer for The North Carolina Arboretum, will lead a leisurely hour-long walking tour of the repository. The tour will depart from the Education Center at 1 p.m. on Saturday and again at 10 a.m. on Sunday. The walk will include information on the natural history of the arboretum’s azalea and rhododendron collections, techniques for identifying various species, and tips on growing and maintaining the plants. Pre-registration is not required, and there is no charge for the walk. The walk will be approximately two miles, so participants are encouraged to wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and carry water.

The rhododendron show is free for arboretum members or with the standard parking fee ($8 per personal motor vehicle).