Rhododendron maxima, also known as great laurel or rose bay, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the heath family. This species is native to the southeastern United States and produces large, showy pink flowers. While 'rhododendron maxima' is the most common name used for this plant, there are several other synonyms that can be used to refer to the same species. Some of these include American rhododendron, big rhododendron, showy rhododendron, and white laurel. Each of these synonyms may be used interchangeably in reference to this plant species, depending on regional and historical context.