Evergreen

Rhododendron diversipilosum 'Milky Way'

Rhododendron diversipilosum 'Milky Way' is a low evergreen shrub with white flowers in spring. It generally reaches about 3 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide, making room at the front of a shrub border or along a path where its mature spread will fit. In Southwest Washington, give it acidic, well-drained soil and steady moisture, especially through summer dry spells. A site with partial shade and protection from strong afternoon sun suits general rhododendron guidance. The flowers may appear in April locally, though timing will vary with the season. Mulch the root area to help keep moisture even.

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At a glance

Mature height: About 3 feet
Mature spread: About 3–5 feet
Light: Partial shade; protect from strong afternoon sun
Hardiness: Confirm locally before planting

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Its low evergreen form can fit near the front of a shrub border or beside a path. Allow for a mature spread of about 3–5 feet.

Where to plant

Choose a site with partial shade and protection from strong afternoon sun. Give the shrub enough room to reach its mature width without crowding a path.

Through the seasons

White flowers appear in spring; an Oregon nursery reports April bloom. The foliage remains evergreen.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

In Southwest Washington, water during summer dry spells to maintain even moisture. Drainage also matters through wet periods, when saturated soil can favor root rot.