Capistrano Rhododendron

Size

The Capistrano Rhododendron is a dense plant with a rounded form that adds color and warmth to a garden space. This broadleaf perennial has glossy deep green foliage. Large buds grow on strong, woody branches and open in late spring to reveal frilly soft yellow flowers. Each flower truss will have multiple blooms, creating a rounded orb of flowers. Rhododendrons are beautiful shrubs that are easy to maintain. Plant this charming beauty in a bed, border, or mass planting. Rhododendrons have an upright, branching growth habit, and since this plant retains its foliage throughout the year, it is an excellent choice for a natural fence or screen and will provide some privacy. Pollinators will visit the showy flowers for added convenience. The hardy Capistrano Rhododendron grows as a perennial in USDA zones 5 through 8. Capistrano Rhododendron Care Plant the Capistrano Rhododendron in well-draining, acidic soil in full shade. This shrub has a shallow root system, so frequent waterings are necessary. Established plants will not need to be watered as often but drench the soil during a drought to help the plant thrive. Lightly fertilize newly planted Rhododendron in the spring and after the flowers die back. Established plants can be fed once each spring using a balanced fertilizer. This plant has a very pleasing natural shape, and pruning is not generally needed, but shape the plant as necessary after the flowers fade. Capistrano Rhododendron Spacing This broadleaf evergreen will grow 6 to 8 feet tall and wide. Plants can be grown 4 to 6 feet apart to create a border or mass planting.