Ignatius Sargent Rhododendron

For a big, bold spring display, it’s hard to beat the Ignatius Sargent Rhododendron. The large flowers, up to 3 inches across, are carried in round trusses of over 20 flowers topping every branch – a fabulous display. Bold, strong pink, with attractive deep-red markings, the flowers are also softly fragrant – something that is quite rare in rhododendrons. All in all, you can rely on this evergreen shrub to put on a striking performance. With large leaves, it has an open, spreading form that is ideal for background planting and growing in more natural settings, and adding a full 6 inches a year it is destined to 5 feet tall in a short time, and ultimately double that. Best of all, this variety is incredibly cold-resistant, and will grow in warmer parts of zone 4, blooming reliably. Thanks to its parentage from a species native to North America (Rhododendron catawbiense) it is also a great choice for hotter areas with humid summers – a win-win plant for every gardener. Tough, reliable and easy, what more can we ask for?

• Very large trusses of over 20 big blooms
• Gorgeous deep pink trumpet flowers with red markings
• Fragrant blossoms add a rare dimension to rhododendron growing
• Very cold-resistant, even into zone 4
• Grow in acidic soil for good results

The best location for the Ignatius Sargent Rhododendron is in a spot with morning sun but afternoon shade during the summer months. It will grow well in the light shade underneath a canopy of deciduous trees. The soil should be well-drained but generally moist, and rich in organic matter. It should also be acidic, with a pH value of 6.0 or lower. Use lime-free compost, pine bark and needles, or shredded leaves as soil additives and also for mulch to conserve moisture. Watering may be needed during summer as this plant is not notably drought tolerant. Generally free of pests and not eaten by deer, it is also cold-resistant down to minus 25 degrees (F), so it will grow successfully in warmer parts of zone 4. It is also tolerant of hot, humid summers, as long as water is available to it. Pruning or trimming isn’t needed, and isn’t recommended. Dead-head young plants by snapping out the spent flower cluster just above the topmost leaves.