Evergreen
Yaku Prince rhododendron
Rhododendron 'Yaku Prince'
Rhododendron 'Yaku Prince' is a compact evergreen shrub with red buds that open purplish pink and soften as the flowers age. It generally reaches about 2 to 3 feet tall, while mature spread estimates range from about 2 to 4 feet. It was recorded at about 3 feet wide after ten years. Its broad shape suits a small foundation bed or mixed shrub border where there is room for the branches to spread. Give it partial shade, acidic, well-drained soil, and steady moisture through summer. In Southwest Washington, protect shallow roots with mulch and choose a site that drains during wet months.
Ask about this plantAt a glance
- Mature height
- About 2–3 feet
- Mature spread
- About 2–4 feet
- Light
- Partial shade
- Hardiness
- Generally USDA zones 5–8
The right plant, the right place
Make room for something good.
The compact, broad evergreen habit fits a small foundation bed or mixed shrub border. Leave enough room for a spread of about 2 to 4 feet.
Where to plant
Choose partial shade, with protection from excessive sun. Set the shrub where its broad branches can develop without crowding a path.
Through the seasons
Red buds open to purplish pink flowers in spring, then the blooms fade with age. The shrub keeps its foliage year-round.
Southwest Washington gardens
Give it a good start.
In Southwest Washington, prioritize drainage through wet periods and water during summer dry spells. These are general rhododendron care needs; local performance of this cultivar has not been established.
Soil, drainage & water
Plant in acidic, moist, well-drained soil. Keep moisture steady in summer without leaving the root zone waterlogged.
A little care goes a long way
Growing well, season after season.
Mulch over the shallow root zone and water during dry summer periods. Prune soon after flowering, before the next flower buds form.
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 leaves, wilting or dieback; roots may rot.
Help your plant thrive
Plant in well-drained soil and start with disease-free stock. Remove and destroy infected plants.
Rhododendron lace bug
Pale stippling on leaf tops and dark, crusty deposits underneath; repeated infestations can yellow the foliage.
Help your plant thrive
Avoid excessive sun. Check leaf undersides in spring and summer, and wash insects off with a strong stream of water.
Good gardens start with a conversation
Let’s find the right plant
for your place.
Ask our team about plant selection and current availability.




