Rhododendron 'DRAMATIC DARK'® rhododendron
size/type
medium-sized shrub,medium-sized shrub
usual height
0,8-1,3m
usual width
1,3-1,8m
leaves
evergreen broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
May-June
location
full to partial sun
USDA zone (lowest)
7 (down to -23°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Rhododendrons are reliable, beautifully flowering, evergreen shrubs of variable origin: S.W. China, Himalayas, Northern America, and even Europe. The original species were hybridized several times for better performance so in the 1950´s there were more than 10,000 cultivars registered, and the number keeps increasing.
Description of the plant:
Rhododendrons with dark flowers are still among the most popular varieties among these evergreen shrubs. No wonder breeders keep coming up with new, improved cultivars like this one called Dramatic Dark®. It looks like enhanced Azzuro variety - large, wide-open flowers of deep purple-violet colour with frilled margins and a very dark, almost black blotch. Evergreen leaves are leathery but thinner than usual, almost flat, elongated, mid green, and matte. Dramatic Dark forms a spreading, compact shrub.For a better looking plant dead-head where possible. The roots are shallow, spreading to sides in search for nutrients. Never plant them too deep. The soil has to be acidic (pH 4.5-5.5), rich in humus, cool and always moist. Ideal soil mixture is peat with lime-free, light garden soil topped with leave-mould. Hardy to min. -24°C (USDA zone 6) but it is expected to take stronger frost.
Last update 25-01-2017
