Rhododendron ‘Else Frye’

Rich with a powerful lily-like scent with nutmeg overtones, Rhododendron ‘Else Frye’ is a medium-sized evergreen shrub with semi-erect flowers held in lax trusses of 3-6. Blooming heavily in mid-spring, its huge, trumpet-shaped, frilly white flowers, up to 4 in. wide (10 cm), exhibit a gold throat and are delicately blushed with rose pink on the outside. They provide a stunning display and contrast beautifully with the evergreen foliage of hairy elliptic dark green leaves with deeply impressed veins. But the main attraction of ‘Else Frye’ is its intense fragrance that will stop you as you walk past and makes it a valuable addition near patios and living areas. Sadly, this Rhododendron edgeworthii hybrid is tender – hardy to 15°F (-9°C) – and suitable only for temperate locations. This early midseason Rhododendron features a long limb growth and can be easily trained as an espalier or on a fence for a memorable scented display.

• Grows up to 3-4 ft. tall and wide (90-120 cm).
• Winner of the Rhododendron of the Year Award of the American Rhododendron Society for the South West region.
• A part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, acidic, humusy, well-drained soils. Plant shallowly in a location protected from strong winter winds. Protect from frost to prevent damage to flowers. Mulch annually with leaf mold to retain moisture, control weeds, and cool the soil.
• Perfect for shrub borders or mixed borders and shade gardens. Great for small gardens and containers too!
• Attracts butterflies, hummingbirds, and birds.
• Removing spent flowers promotes new growth.
• All parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
• Toxic to dogs, toxic to cats, toxic to horses.