Rhododendron 'PJM Elite'
PJM Elite' Rhododendron, Early Midseason Rhododendron, Evergreen Rhododendron, PJM Group
Highly popular in North America and exceptionally cold hardy, Rhododendron 'PJM Elite' is a vigorous and showy evergreen shrub. In mid to late spring, it bears abundant rounded clusters of 10 to 15, trumpet-shaped, vibrant reddish-purple flowers. The foliage of elliptic, glossy, dark green leaves turns reddish-purple in fall and winter. A very reliable performer, this showy Rhododendron is tough and can withstand temperatures as low as -25ºF (-32ºC).
'PJM Elite' is an eminent member of the Rhododendron PJM Group, which includes a series of Rhododendron hybrids resulting from crosses between Rhododendron carolinianum and Rhododendron dauricum var. sempervirens. These hybrids are vigorous, compact, rounded, small-leaved evergreen shrubs that are noted for their exceptional winter hardiness.
- Grows with a dense, rounded habit, up to 5-6 ft. tall and wide (150-180 cm).
- Winner of the Rhododendron of the Year Award of the American Rhododendron Society for the Mid-Atlantic, North West, South Central, and South East regions.
- 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, as a flowering hedge or privacy screen, foundation plantings, 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.
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Requirements
Hardiness | 4
– 8 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 1
– 8 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 16, 17, 18 |
Plant Type | Shrubs |
Plant Family | Azaleas - Rhododendrons, Rhododendron - Azalea |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Mid,Late) Fall Winter |
Height | 5' – 6' (150cm – 180cm) |
Spread | 5' – 6' (150cm – 180cm) |
Spacing | 60" – 72" (150cm – 180cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Rabbit |
Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |
Guides with Azaleas - Rhododendrons
Copyright: Image Botanic LLC
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
Requirements
Hardiness | 4
– 8 |
---|---|
Heat Zones | 1
– 8 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 16, 17, 18 |
Plant Type | Shrubs |
Plant Family | Azaleas - Rhododendrons, Rhododendron - Azalea |
Exposure | Partial Sun |
Season of Interest |
Spring (Mid,Late) Fall Winter |
Height | 5' – 6' (150cm – 180cm) |
Spread | 5' – 6' (150cm – 180cm) |
Spacing | 60" – 72" (150cm – 180cm) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Rabbit |
Attracts | Butterflies, Hummingbirds |
Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |
Guides with Azaleas - Rhododendrons