Rhododendron ponticum

Rhododendron ponticum Details

Rhododendron ponticum is a variety of Rhododendron that features large and showy trusses of light pink flowers with a purple overtone in late spring. It is reasonably fast growing with an erect growth habit, bearing lush, dark green foliage. This evergreen shrub typically grows to 5 m tall and the same wide, performing best when grown in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained, sheltered site. It is tolerant of frosts but should be protected from harsh frosts when young. When fertilising, avoid using lime as this will stunt or even kill plants. Rhododendron ponticum is a vigorous species and is commonly included in cottage gardens, used as a backdrop for smaller plants, or planted for screening.