Evergreen

Yaku Princess rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Yaku Princess'

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Rhododendron 'Yaku Princess' is a compact evergreen with deep pink buds that open pink and fade toward white. Fawn-colored felt beneath its leaves adds year-round foliage detail. At ten years, the registered size was about 1.3 feet tall and 3 feet wide; later estimates run about 2–4 feet tall and 4–5 feet wide. Its broad, low form suits a shaded shrub border or foundation bed with room to spread as it grows. In Southwest Washington, give it partial or dappled shade and moist, acidic, well-drained soil. Water during dry summer weather, and keep leaves away from prolonged hot sun.

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At a glance

Mature height: About 2–4 feet
Mature spread: About 4–5 feet
Light: Partial or dappled shade
Hardiness: Generally USDA zone 5

The right plant, the right place

Make room for something good.

Its compact, wider-than-tall form fits a shaded shrub border or foundation planting. Allow about 4–5 feet for its estimated mature spread.

Where to plant

Choose partial or dappled shade, with protection from prolonged hot sun. Leave enough space for the plant to broaden beyond its ten-year dimensions.

Through the seasons

Deep pink buds open into pink flowers that age white. Evergreen leaves retain their fawn-colored felt beneath them through the year.

Southwest Washington gardens

Give it a good start.

Hot summer sun can scorch rhododendron leaves in the region. Provide shade and water during dry spells, while keeping the root area well drained.

Soil, drainage & water

Plant in moist, acidic, well-drained soil. Avoid sites where water lingers around the roots.

A little care goes a long way

Growing well, season after season.

Water during dry summer weather to maintain moist soil. Check leaf undersides for lace bugs and watch for wilting or branch dieback.

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, branch dieback, and rotting roots.

Help your plant thrive

Start with disease-free plants and well-drained soil. Remove and destroy infected plants.

Rhododendron lace bug

Pale stippling above the leaves and dark, crusty deposits beneath them.

Help your plant thrive

Check leaf undersides, especially on plants receiving substantial sun. Dislodge insects by hand or with a strong water spray directed beneath the leaves.