Rhododendron Milky Way

Plant Fact File:

• Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub
• Common Name: Milky Way Rhododendron
• Botanical Name: Rhododendron ‘Milky Way’
• Growth Habit: Compact, rounded
• Height: 1.2 – 1.5 meters (4 – 5 feet)
• Spread: 1 – 1.5 meters (3 – 5 feet)
• Foliage: Dark green, glossy leaves
• Flower Color: White with yellow markings
• Flowering Period: Late spring to early summer
• Hardiness: Fully Hardy
• Aspect: Partial shade to full sun (prefers dappled shade)
• Soil Type: Moist, well-draining, acidic soil
• Uses: Borders, woodland gardens, foundation plantings, containers

Description:

Rhododendron ‘Milky Way’ is a charming evergreen shrub that boasts a dense, compact habit with glossy, dark green foliage. In late spring to early summer, the plant becomes adorned with an abundance of exquisite, star-shaped flowers. These blooms feature pristine white petals adorned with delicate yellow markings, resembling a starry night sky, hence the name ‘Milky Way’.

Key Features:

• Abundant Starry Flowers: The most striking feature of Rhododendron ‘Milky Way’ is undoubtedly its profusion of star-shaped flowers. These delicate blooms cover the shrub in late spring to early summer, creating a stunning display of white with subtle yellow markings. The flowers are a magnet for pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to the garden.
• Compact Growth Habit: ‘Milky Way’ exhibits a compact, rounded growth habit, making it an excellent choice for small gardens or container planting. Its moderate size allows for versatile use in various landscape settings, including borders, woodland gardens, and foundation plantings.
• Glossy Foliage: The dark green, glossy leaves of ‘Milky Way’ provide year-round interest in the garden. Even when not in bloom, the foliage adds texture and color to the landscape. The glossy leaves catch the light, creating a lush and vibrant backdrop for the starry white flowers.
• Easy to Grow: Rhododendron ‘Milky Way’ is relatively easy to grow and maintain, provided it is planted in the right conditions. It thrives in moist, well-draining, acidic soil and prefers partial shade to full sun, though it can tolerate dappled shade. Once established, it requires minimal care and is generally resistant to pests and diseases.
• Versatile Uses: This charming shrub can be used in various ways in the garden, thanks to its compact size and stunning flowers. It works well as a specimen plant, focal point, or mass planting in borders or woodland gardens. ‘Milky Way’ also adds visual interest when grown in containers on patios or balconies, where its starry blooms can be enjoyed up close.