Rhododendron – Nova Zembla (Red)

Title:
Rhododendron – Nova Zembla (Red)

Description:
Brighten your garden with the dramatic beauty of the Nova Zembla Rhododendron, celebrated for its large trusses of brilliant, cardinal red flowers with deep maroon blotches. This evergreen shrub blooms prolifically in mid to late spring, creating a stunning display that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. Its glossy, dark green foliage provides year-round interest and shelter for wildlife.

Nova Zembla is one of the hardiest rhododendrons, thriving in both cold and heat, and is well-suited for borders, hedges, privacy screens, or as a striking specimen plant. It prefers partial sun and organically rich, acidic, well-drained soil. With an upright, dense habit, it matures to 5–8 feet tall and 5–7 feet wide, making it ideal for both foundation plantings and woodland gardens.

Key Features:

• Large, rounded trusses of brilliant red, trumpet-shaped flowers with maroon blotches (mid to late spring)

• Evergreen, glossy dark green foliage

• Mature size: 5–8 ft tall, 5–7 ft wide

• Dense, upright growth habit

• Attracts hummingbirds and butterflies

• Extremely cold hardy (USDA zones 4–8)

• Tolerates heat and sun

• Low maintenance; deer and rabbit resistant

Care Instructions:
Plant in acidic, well-drained, organically rich soil. Water deeply and regularly, especially during establishment and hot summer months. Apply mulch to keep roots cool and moist. Prune after flowering to remove dead or damaged branches and encourage healthy growth. Fertilize with acid-loving plant food after bloom. Protect from harsh afternoon sun and drying winter winds.

Light: Partial sun (4–6 hours daily)
Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Foliage: Evergreen, glossy dark green
Landscape Uses: Borders, hedges, privacy screens, foundation plantings, woodland gardens, specimen plant
Companion Plants: Hydrangea, Holly, Astilbe, Bleeding Heart, Coral Bells
Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested

Botanical Name: Rhododendron x 'Nova Zembla'