LARGE VIOLET-PURPLE BLOSSOMS, DARK GREEN LEAVES
FEATURES:
- Unique purple buds open into large clusters of violet-purple flowers
- Dark green glossy leaves are evergreen
- Great for use as a focal point in big planting groups or as a hedge
- Evergreen foliage on rhododendrons improve any landscape effectively
- Hand Selected, Fresh from the Grower
- Ships in a plant-safe designed box
Growth Facts
- Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Mature Height: 6-7' tall
- Mature Width: 6-8' wide
- Exposure: Full Sun/Part Shade
- Spacing: 6-8' apart
LARGE VIOLET-PURPLE BLOSSOMS, DARK GREEN LEAVES
FEATURES:
- Unique purple buds open into large clusters of violet-purple flowers
- Dark green glossy leaves are evergreen
- Great for use as a focal point in big planting groups or as a hedge
- Evergreen foliage on rhododendrons improve any landscape effectively
- Hand Selected, Fresh from the Grower
- Ships in a plant-safe designed box
Growth Facts
- Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Mature Height: 6-7' tall
- Mature Width: 6-8' wide
- Exposure: Full Sun/Part Shade
- Spacing: 6-8' apart
Why plant Lee's Dark Purple Rhododendron?
Since Victorian times, Lee’s Dark Purple Catawba Rhododendron has been a beloved Accent for lightly shaded beds and borders. Enthusiasm for this fine selection hasn’t waned—it’s still a favorite many generations after its introduction. What’s not to love? Generous bunches of regal purple blossoms adorn its branches each year in late spring, and fantastic, dark, wavy leaves clothe it from head to toe all year-round. Use it as a bold specimen or as a backdrop to more delicate plants. It also makes a neighbor-friendly privacy screen when planted on your property line and requires hardly any pruning.
Lee’s Dark Purple is a type of Catawba Rhododendron. From late April through June, the Catawba Rhododendron lights up shady hillsides and forest understory in the Allegheny Mountains, bringing its rosy purple cheer to a region extending from southern Virginia to northern Alabama. Lee’s Dark Purple therefore calls the U.S. home, although it also owes an allegiance to the U.K.; it was bred by an English nurseryman by the name of John Lee in 1851. It is known as one of the “Ironclad” Rhododendrons for its ability to cope with frigid winters and other challenges.
How to use Lee's Dark Purple Rhododendron in the landscape?
Some Rhododendrons can be a bit tricky to grow, but Lee’s Dark Purple is one of the most resilient. With proper care, it thrives in the colder states—down to -20ºF—and tolerates the heat and humidity of the South as well. This one is a winner!
Planting Zones
Hardiness Zone: 5-9
How To Plant Lee's Dark Purple Rhododendron
Catawba Rhododendron is tougher than many Rhododendrons, but it does appreciate good siting and aftercare. Plant Lee’s Dark Purple in part shade, in cool, acidic, well-drained soil for best results. Keep the root zone moist but never soggy. An annual layer of organic mulch will help to retain moisture.
How To Water
During the first growing season, your Rhododendron will need to be watered twice a week. Once your plant has established, you can diminish your watering routine to only during dry periods.
How To Fertilize
Give your Rhododendron some of our Elements Starter Plant Food at planting and then again in early spring as the flowers start budding. Avoid harsh chemical fertilizers—Catawba Rhododendron is sensitive to overfeeding.
How To Prune
Prune your Rhododendron any time of the year for normal upkeep, or straight after flowering to give the time your plant needs for the production of new growth and formation of flower buds.
