About
Rhododendron neriiflorum, the oleander-flowered rhododendron, is an evergreen shrub to 6 m with narrow, dark-green leaves, white beneath, to 10 cm. In mid to late spring it bears trusses of 6�12 tubular to bell-shaped flowers to 10 cm across in shades from deep rose to crimson red. A beautiful and vivid rhododendron for a sheltered, moist, acidic garden.
About the genus
Rhododendron, one of the largest and most diverse shrub genera, includes evergreen and deciduous species and hybrids ranging from dwarf alpines to large trees, all preferring moist, well-drained, acidic soil in sheltered positions with dappled shade or full sun.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Architectural
Native toSW China
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, tortoises) Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained, leafy, humus-rich acid soil in part shade with shelter, suitable for full sun if soil remains reliably moist; see rhododendron cultivation
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by seed when ripe, or semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, layering in autumn or grafting in late summer or late winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil, rhododendron leafhopper, pieris lacebug, scale insects, caterpillars and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to various Rhododendron diseases including powdery mildews, rhododendron petal blight, rhododendron bud blast, silver leaf and honey fungus