Cherries and Merlot Rhododendron

This is such a standout rhododendron variety with attention-grabbing clear cherry red flowers held aloft on sturdy trusses. But really, it's the bicolored foliage that delivers the knockout punch.

Each glossy, dark green, ovate leaf is brushed with a deeply delicious, Merlot wine-colored underside. No matter what time of year, this compact broadleaved evergreen beauty is absolutely stunning.

Play off the foliage by pairing it with other dark foliage shrubs such as Ninebark or Wine & Roses Weigela. Punch it up with a Purple Fountain Grass, or use the delicious, deep purple blooms of Ebb Tide™ Rose as a wonderful coordinating partner. Evergreen trees and shrubs will look fabulous next to this bold selection.

You'd never get tired of this soothing, restful colorway. But don't worry - those bright red blooms in spring will liven things up for several weeks!

Rhododendrons hate "wet feet", so check how fast water drains in your yard by digging a hole and pouring a bucket of water in it. Does it take longer than 10 minutes to drain?

If so, you'll need to improve the drainage by creating a mound or raised bed 18 inches tall. Amend the soil with pine needle compost and perlite pellets.

Alternatively, consider planting this variety in a large container where you can use fast-draining soil, amended with acidic peat moss or fine pine bark soil conditioner. You'll need to plan to keep this beauty evenly watered.

We'll run out of this selection very quickly, order now!