This evergreen shrub is common in some high mountain ranges of Eastern Europe, particularly Bulgaria, Romania and Ukraine.

[7] It's a close relative of the alpenrose (Rhododendron ferrugineum), replacing it to the east of its range.

The main differences are the myrtle-leaved rhododendron shrub's smaller dimensions, hairy pedicels and paler flowers.

[9] The myrtle-leaved rhododendron is an endangered and protected relict species in Bulgaria, which is at the southern limit of its distribution area.

[10] It grows on the northern slopes of several summits in the Central Balkan National Park, as well as on the northern slope of Belmeken in the Rila National Park.