Purple Splendour Rhododendron

Purple Splendour Rhododendron (Rhododendron 'Purple Splendour') is a classic hardy hybrid with deep royal purple flowers and a near black flare in the throat. It grows to about 1.8m, flowers in spring and holds glossy evergreen leaves all year. It suits cool and mild gardens with acidic soil and protection from hot afternoon sun.

Why you'll love it

• Deep royal purple. One of the richest flower colours in the rhododendron range, with a near black flare for contrast.
• Evergreen foliage. Leathery dark leaves hold the garden together all year.
• Mid sized habit. At about 1.8m it suits border planting without overwhelming other shrubs.
• Hardy hybrid. It handles winter cold in cool temperate gardens.
• Easy roots. Shallow fibrous roots are simple to plant and unlikely to cause trouble.

Where it works best

Shaded borders. Plant 1.2m apart with silver leaved ferns or white flowers nearby to lift the deep colour.

Woodland planting. Use it under high tree canopy, where dappled light and shelter suit it.

Entry beds. A shaded entry bed with acid, moist soil suits this plant, and the rich flowers show well in low light.

Growing Purple Splendour Rhododendron in Australia

Position and climate. Dappled or morning sun, protected from hot afternoon sun and wind. It suits cool temperate and mild warm temperate gardens. In humid subtropical and tropical regions rhododendrons are difficult, so choose other plants.

Soil. Acidic, humus rich, free draining soil with leaf mould or composted bark added. Avoid lime and mulch generously.

Water and feed. Keep soil evenly moist through summer and feed after flowering with an acid loving fertiliser.

Pruning. Remove spent trusses and prune lightly after flowering to shape.

What to expect when it arrives

Plants are sold as 200mm pots in packs of 6. Each pot holds a young plant that will need a few seasons to flower strongly. Plants travel upright, and should be planted into prepared acidic soil soon after arrival and watered in deeply.

All parts of a rhododendron are toxic to pets and people if eaten, so plant it out of reach of animals and children who chew. Our growers do not hold every size all year, so a size can show as on backorder at times. An order for a backorder size is confirmed with you before anything ships. Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Camellias for similar conditions
• Azalea care guide for acid loving shrubs
• Plants for cool climates

Common questions

Will the flower colour change with soil?

No. Unlike hydrangeas, rhododendron flower colour does not change with soil acidity, though acidic soil keeps the plant healthy.

Does it need pruning?

Only lightly. Remove spent trusses and tidy after flowering.

Can it handle full sun?

In cool climates it can tolerate more sun if kept moist. In warmer areas shelter from afternoon sun is important.