Rhododendron Dramatic Dark ('Hachdram'PBR) — Bushy

Overview

Rhododendron Dramatic Dark ('Hachdram'PBR) is a bushy shrubs in the genus Rhododendron, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Rhododendron Dramatic Dark ('Hachdram'PBR) grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include woodland gardens and containers on shaded patios.

About

Rhododendron Dramatic Dark ('Hachdram'PBR) is an evergreen Rhododendron shrub with a well-branched habit and a concentrated spring flowering period. It performs best in partial shade on fertile loam with an acidic reaction and consistent moisture. Plant in a sheltered east- or west-facing spot to reduce exposure to winds. Flowering occurs from April to June.

About the genus

Rhododendron, from Ancient Greek ῥόδον (rhódon), meaning "rose", and δένδρον (déndron), meaning "tree", is a very large genus of about 1,024 species of woody plants in the heath family (Ericaceae). They can be either evergreen or deciduous. Most species are native to eastern Asia and the Himalayan region, but smaller numbers occur elsewhere in Asia, and in North America, Europe and Australia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Rhododendron", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rhododendron

In the garden

Rhododendron Dramatic Dark ('Hachdram'PBR) belongs to the Ericaceae family and sits within the genus Rhododendron. As an evergreen shrub with a compact, well-branched form, it is selected for locations where year-round foliage and a clear flowering season are required. Its flowering in the UK is from April to June, providing a defined window of interest in spring and early summer. Place this rhododendron where it receives partial shade; bright morning light with protection from the hottest afternoon sun suits it well. It prefers a loam soil with an acid reaction and must not be allowed to dry out, although water should drain freely — moist but well-drained conditions are important. Choose an east- or west-facing aspect in a sheltered position to limit exposure to strong winds; the plant is classified H5 (hardy) in the UK, so it tolerates typical seasonal chills when sited appropriately. Recommended uses include woodland-style borders and containers on shaded patios where soil conditions can be maintained. Its evergreen leaves provide structure outside the flowering months, and its April-to-June blooms give a clear seasonal display in the locations described.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Rhododendron

Sunlight: Partial shade
Soil type: Loam
Soil pH: Acid
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H5

Plant details

Rhododendron Dramatic Dark ('Hachdram'PBR) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Shrubs
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Evergreen
Suggested uses: Woodland gardens, Containers on shaded patios

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Rhododendron Dramatic Dark ('Hachdram'PBR)

Propagation: Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering, Grafting
Pest resistance: Vine weevil, Rhododendron leafhopper, Pieris lacebug, Scale insects, Caterpillars, Aphids
Disease resistance: Powdery mildews, Rhododendron petal blight, Rhododendron bud blast, Silver leaf, Honey fungus