That's gorgeous. This season I bought Point Defiance, which is another one of Lem's. I think I might need Lem's Cameo now too. ;-)

Often looks more peachy or orangish, when it is positively luscious. However, the foliage isn't much, as can be seen even in this photo.

Used to be hard to get and quite expensive, due to propagation difficulties. I grew one for awhile that was given to me, think it probably came with a phytophthora problem - the basis for the previous owner tiring of it (in addition to its inherent drawbacks as a foliage plant). Also had a chronic chlorosis-like condition, finally I think it mildewed after that appeared on the site here. Eventually I discarded it. For a somewhat different assessment:

"'Lem's Cameo'...A sensational apricot cream and pink, with a real glow. Super foliage is deep shiny green in summer and bright bronzy red when new, a show in itself! When you see this plant in flower, you will know why, it, along with 'Trude Webster', was the first of all the rhododendrons to be given the coveted Superior Plant Award. Extremely difficult to propagate. Still being sold under the name 'Cameo', which is actually the name of a different plant."

--H.E. Greer, GREER'S GUIDEBOOK TO AVAILABLE RHODODENDRONS

I tried taking cuttings of it once and almost all of them rooted. I had about 20 but now only have two. I sold or gave away the rest. I haven't had any problems with the foliage even though one is planted within ten feet of a large Dawn Redwood. (What was I thinking?!) I'll get a foliage picture later today.

Here's the foliage picture. Click to enlarge.
{{gwi:383788}}

Botann, you always have the most beautiful plants!!
I am so jealous!! And still waiting for that offer to move into the cabin and become your gardner!! :D

Paula

Spelling it "gardener" might improve prospects.