A compact early flowering Finish hybrid Rhododendron.
Pronunciation
(roh-do-DEN-dron)
Plant Type
All Plants, Broadleaf evergreen
Hardiness Zone
5
Sunlight
morning sun at most, afternoon shade, part sun
Moisture
average, moist
Soil & Site
well drained, acidic ph, humusy
Flowers
cherry red
Leaves
dark green, evergreen, brownish below
Dimensions
3 by 3 feet (HS)
Maintenance
I have had success growing Rhododendrons by digging the hole 2 times larger than is needed. Taking the soil and mixing it 50-50 with peat moss or other organic material. Plant it above grade to provide for good drainage. At planting time I give it a dose of soil sulfur. Always mulch the plant with organic mulch (preferably one that creates and acid soil conditions). This helps add organic matter to the soil as it rots and helps to maintain the soil moisture. Any pruning should be done after flowering
Misc Facts
Genus name comes from the Greek words rhodo meaning rose and dendron meaning tree. Transferred from the Greek name for Nerium oleander
Notes & Reference
#01-Manual of Woody Landscape Plants (Michael Dirr)