Rhododendron 'RAPHAELA' rhododendron
size/type
medium-sized shrub,medium-sized shrub
usual height
0,8-1,3m
usual width
0,8-1,5m
leaves
evergreen broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
April-May
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:
Raphaela is an attractive bi-coloured rhododendron hybrid by Hans Hachmann from 2009. The flowers combine striking purple pink margins and golden yellow throat. It is an early variety blooming already from second half April for 2-3 weeks. In partial shade the flowers last longer. Evergreen leaves are leathery, broadly elliptic, almost flat, and matte. Raphaela grows upright and bushy, in 10 years it is about 70 cm tall and a little more wide. For a better looking shrub 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 about -23°C (USDA zone 6).
Last update 02-04-2019
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