Rhododendron 'PJM'

Rhododendron 'PJM'

 

Common name: rhododendron

Family: Ericaceae

Leaf: evergreen, eliiptic, hairless, leathery, dark green leaves (up to 2.5" long), foliage acquires purple tones in winter

Flowers: lavender, rose or pink flowers (colour varies with cultivar), blooming in clusters (4-9 flowers per cluster), in April.

Habit: evergreen shrub; Form: compact, rounded

Height: 3-6'; Spread: 3-7'

Culture: Best grown in acidic, humusy, organically rich, moisture-retentive but well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Prefers a sun dappled shade. Foliage may scorch in full sun. Acidify soils prior to planting and thereafter as needed. Plant in a location protected from strong winter winds. Good soil drainage is essential (doesn’t like “wet feet”). Poor drainage inevitably leads to root rot, therefore raised beds/plantings should be considered in heavy clay soils. Shallow, fibrous root systems, like rhododendrons will benefit greatly from a mulch (e.g., wood chips, bark or pine needles) to help retain moisture and stabilize soil temperatures. Roots must never be allowed to dry out. Clip off spent flower clusters immediately after bloom as practicable. PJM plants do not produce seed.

Uses: Mass, group or specimen. Shrub borders, mixed borders, woodland gardens and shade gardens. Informal hedge. Also effective in foundation plantings and as a specimen around the home.

Origin: garden origin (Massachusetts)