Mardi Gras Rhododendron

Mardi Gras Rhododendron is a compact mounded evergreen shrub with thick, glossy dark green foliage that has velvety undersides.  The large clusters of rose pink buds open to lightly rippled white flowers with pastel pink backs and bloom in mid spring.  A very versatile plant that prefers morning or partial sun with rich, well-drained acidic soils. 

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  A low maintenance plant.  Moderate water needs, properly drained soils is a must to avoid root rot.  Mulch helps to keep roots from drying out. Keep away from drip lines of the walnut family. Acidify soils as needed (PH range of 5 to 6.5) Can use sulfur or iron sulfate to lower ph, and lime or limestone to raise PH. Buds grow on old growth in winter, so if need to prune do so after the spring bloom.  Southern climates with excessive humidity are more prone to powdery mildew, twig blights, and rust.

LANDSCAPE USES:  Mass or Specimen Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Foundation Plantings, Hedges, and Containers.

COMPANION PLANTS: Hydrangea, Astilbe, Bleeding Hearts

*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown