Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder

Plant Fact File:

• Plant Type: Evergreen Shrub
• Common Name: Scarlet Wonder Rhododendron
• Botanical Name: Rhododendron ‘Scarlet Wonder’
• Growth Habit: Compact, mounded
• Height: 60-90 cm (2-3 feet)
• Spread: 60-90 cm (2-3 feet)
• Foliage: Dark green, glossy leaves
• Flower Color: Scarlet-red
• 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 ‘Scarlet Wonder’ is a compact evergreen shrub known for its stunning scarlet-red flowers and glossy dark green foliage. It typically grows to a height and spread of 60-90 cm, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or container planting. In late spring to early summer, the shrub is adorned with an abundance of vibrant scarlet-red flowers, which stand out against the backdrop of dark green foliage.

Key Features:

• Compact Growth Habit: One of the standout features of Rhododendron ‘Scarlet Wonder’ is its compact, mounded growth habit. This makes it well-suited for smaller gardens, borders, or container planting, where it can add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. Its moderate size also allows for easy maintenance and versatility in landscaping.
• Vibrant Scarlet Flowers: The most striking feature of ‘Scarlet Wonder’ is its scarlet-red flowers, which appear in abundance in late spring to early summer. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and create a stunning display against the dark green foliage. Their vibrant color adds visual interest and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies to the garden.
• Glossy Foliage: The dark green, glossy leaves of ‘Scarlet Wonder’ provide year-round interest in the garden. The foliage remains evergreen throughout the year, adding color and texture even in the winter months. The glossy leaves catch the light and create a lush backdrop for the vibrant scarlet flowers.
• Easy to Grow: Rhododendron ‘Scarlet Wonder’ is relatively easy to grow and maintain, provided it is planted in the right conditions. It prefers moist, well-draining, acidic soil and dappled shade, although it can tolerate partial shade to full sun with adequate moisture. Once established, it requires minimal care and is generally resistant to pests and diseases.
• Versatile Uses: ‘Scarlet Wonder’ can be used in various ways in the landscape, thanks to its compact size and vibrant flowers. It works well as a border plant, mass planting, or foundation planting in gardens. It also thrives in woodland gardens, where it adds color and texture under the canopy of trees. Additionally, it can be grown in containers on patios or balconies, where its vibrant blooms can be enjoyed up close.