Rhododendron ‘Fragrant Star’

Regarded as one of the most fragrant deciduous Azaleas, Rhododendron ‘Fragrant Star’ is a pretty addition to the mid-spring garden with its masses of very strongly scented, funnel-shaped, pure white flowers, up to 1.5 in. wide (3-4 cm). The deciduous foliage of blue-green leaves is equally attractive. ‘Fragrant Star’ resembles its popular parent, Rhododendron ‘Snowbird’, but displays larger flowers and thicker leaves. Heat tolerant, it is also quite cold-hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).

• Grows with a strong, upright habit 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 Great Lakes region.
• A sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in moist, acidic, humusy, well-drained soils. Tolerates full sun in cool, moist sites. 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, hedges or screens, and shade gardens.
• 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.