Why Plant Purpureum Elegans Rhododendron?
One hundred and seventy years later, it’s still a favorite! Purpureum Elegans Catawba Rhododendron is a treasured Accent that has truly stood the test of time. Beloved for generations, this heirloom plant finds an honored place in gardens of all types. It looks regal in the most formal of landscapes but is equally at home in naturalistic gardens as well. Purpureum Elegans supplies lively greenery to foundation plantings, island beds, and mixed borders all year-long, and its blossoms are a bonanza in late spring. The rich purple blooms, borne in abundance, capture the essence of that sweet season. In May and June, the Catawba Rhododendron lights up shady hillsides and forest understory in the Alleghany Mountains, bringing its rosy purple cheer to a region extending from southern Virginia to northern Alabama. This American native was named after Native Americans—the Catawba people have their homeland in South Carolina. Purpureum Elegans therefore has its origins in the U.S., but also in England, where it was first grown. The Waterer family of the illustrious Knap Hill Nurseries in Sussex brought this revered Accent to life. Hosea Waterer, who actually lived in Philadelphia, is credited with its introduction in 1850.
How to use Purpureum Elegans Rhododendron in the landscape?
Some Rhododendrons can be a bit tricky to grow, but Purpureum Elegans is one of the most resilient. With proper care, it thrives in the colder states—down to -25ºF—and tolerates the heat and humidity of the South as well. This one is a winner!
How To Plant Purpureum Elegans Rhododendron
Catawba Rhododendron is tougher than many Rhododendrons, but it does appreciate good siting and aftercare. Plant Purpureum Elegans in part shade, in cool, acidic, well-drained soil for best results. Keep the rootzone moist but never soggy. An annual layer of organic mulch will help to retain moisture. Avoid harsh chemical fertilizers—Catawba Rhododendron is sensitive to overfeeding; a gentle organic product like Bower & Branch Elements™ Fertilizer is all that is needed if plants seem weak or “hungry.” Black vine weevil and Azalea lace bug can sometimes be an issue, but specimens grown in optimal conditions in most cases will remain healthy and resistant to attack.
How Does Shipping Work?
Bower & Branch Trees, the real BIG trees, don’t fit in a box! Our big trees, sizes XL and bigger, require expert delivery and care, that means our extra-large trees are shipped on Bower & Branch trucks. We are the only ones who know how to ship our big and bigger trees and plants with tender loving care. We deliver your trees and plants directly to you. Ask Bower & Branch about planting services – we'd be happy to assist in installation.
*For Big trees and Shrubs, Size XL and bigger: Review our Seasonal Shipping Timelines and Policy here.
Your trees and plants are grown across the United States at various Bower & Branch Growers. Depending on your location, your plant orders may be shipped from various locations. Please expect orders with multiple items to be delivered over a number of days as a result. Orders made up of numerous items or selections will not arrive at your home on the same day.
Shipping Delays:
From time to time, Bower & Branch Growers may determine to delay order shipment based on various factors for plant health. Weather in your region, as well as, where your plants are grown, is always considered when shipping. Extreme weather conditions may delay some or all of your order. Bower & Branch allows our Growers to make final shipping decisions based solely to benefit your trees and plants’ health and success.
How Does Sizing Work?
The size of our trees have nothing to do with the container size like you may find elsewhere–big doesn't mean just height - it’s also vigor, age, and overall health. Other online retailers are going to tell you that a plant is a seven gallon, that means nothing to your tree or plant (or you.)
Our trees for sale online are graded on large, x-large, and even bigger sizes. This is because our trees are sized by their age—the higher the letter, the more mature the tree. The age determines the trees’ overall height, size of the trunk and the overall branch density.
All of these characteristics are what you should be looking for when choosing a tree for immediate impact and instant curb appeal. Our extra-large tree and plant sizes are sure to wow you and your neighbors!
See the size guides below.
