Great White Rhododendron

A magnificent, scented rhodie, Rhododendron decorum is a tall, evergreen shrub or small tree with an upright, open, bushy habit. The oblong to ovate leaves, 6/15cm long, are deep green, a wonderful foil for the flowers, and have pale, glaucous undersides. In May and early June, big trusses of 7-10 bell-shaped flowers appear; theyre white, sometimes faintly flushed with pink, with yellow stamens and a greenish-yellow throat, and a strong, delicious fragrance. The great white rhododendron holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Reliably moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil, preferably light
Position: Best in partial shade; tolerates full sun
Season of interest: Late spring and early summer
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: 20 (6m) Spread: 8 (2.5m)