Rhododendron, 2 gal, P.J.M. Elite

P.J.M. Elite Rhododendron is draped in stunning clusters of lightly-scented fuchsia trumpet-shaped flowers with lavender overtones at the ends of the branches in early spring. Widely used and extremely hardy, slow-growing broadleaf evergreen shrub. Glossy, dark green foliage has purple tinge in fall.

Attributes

Type: Broadleaf Evergreen Shrub
Growth Habit: Upright
Mature Height: 1 - 1.25m (3 - 4ft.)
Mature Spread: 1 - 1.25m (3 - 4ft.)
Zone: 3
Feature Characteristics: Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant

Ornamental Features

Flower Colour: Fuchsia with lavender overtones
Flowering Time: May - June
Foliage Colour: Dark green, turning purple in the fall.

Care

General Maintenance: Prune immediately after flowering to control shape. Apply a thick layer of mulch to keep roots cool, avoiding the crown. Avoid harsh afternoon sun exposures and shelter from drying winter winds.
Light: Full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system.
Soil: Requires an evenly moist well-drained soil for optimal growth, but will die in standing water. It is very fussy about its soil conditions and must have rich, acidic soils to ensure success, and is subject to chlorosis (yellowing) of the leaves in alkaline soils. If in alkaline soils acidify with aluminum sulfate.
Fertilizer: Feed with an acid fertilizer after bloom.