This fine tree was previously identified as Rhododendron sinogrande, but the presence of glands on the ovary (as pointed out to us by a visitor) eliminates R. sinogrande which is eglandulate. The glands on the ovary distinguish R. grande from all other members of the Grandia subsection of rhododendrons

Rhododendron grande is native to E. Nepal, Sikkim and Bhutan where it grows from 2100 to 3200m altitude. It was introduced by Sir Joseph Hooker in 1850 who named it R. argenteum
This fine specimen is located beside the Stranmillis gate into the Botanic Gardens.

Photos taken in Belfast Botanic Gardens. Copyright: Friends of Belfast Botanic Gardens.