Evergreen

Holden rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Holden'

Clusters of pink to rose-red flowers appear in spring on Rhododendron 'Holden', a compact shrub with glossy, dark green evergreen leaves. Its dense, rounded form generally reaches about 4 to 5 feet tall and wide at maturity. In Southwest Washington gardens, place it in dappled shade and shelter, with room for its eventual spread. Give its roots acidic soil with good drainage, supplying water during dry spells to keep the root area moist. The shrub fits a shaded foundation planting or woodland edge, where its spring flowers and year-round foliage remain visible.

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At a glance

Mature height
About 4–5 ft
Mature spread
About 4–5 ft
Light
Dappled shade
Hardiness
Listed to USDA Zone 5

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Its dense, rounded form suits a shaded foundation planting or woodland edge. Allow roughly 4 to 5 feet for its mature spread.

Where to plant

Choose a sheltered spot with dappled shade. Give the shrub space to reach its mature width without crowding nearby plants.

Through the seasons

Pink to rose-red flowers appear in spring, with timing dependent on local conditions. Glossy dark green leaves remain through winter.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

Rhododendrons generally grow well in the Pacific Northwest. In Southwest Washington, watch for lace bug damage and signs of root rot.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in acidic, moist but well-drained soil. Water during dry spells, especially while the shrub is establishing.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Water during dry spells to keep the soil moist. Choose a sheltered position with dappled shade.

Know what to look for

Common growing concerns.

Symptoms can have more than one cause. These notes are a starting point for observing your plant and improving its growing conditions.

Phytophthora root rot

Stunted growth, yellowish-green leaves, wilting and branch dieback; dead leaves may remain attached.

Help your plant thrive

Start with disease-free plants in well-drained soil. Remove affected plants and practice sanitation.

Rhododendron lace bug

Pale stippling above the leaves and dark, crusty deposits underneath; repeated infestations can yellow the foliage.

Help your plant thrive

Check leaf undersides, especially by early to midsummer. Dislodge bugs with a strong stream of water directed underneath the leaves.

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