Rhododendron Elie

Rhododendron

Elie (Rhododendron ‘Elie’) is an evergreen rhododendron with pink flowers. Its display arrives in the early-to-middle part of the rhododendron flowering season, with the exact timing influenced by local weather. Individual flowers measure about 2 inches across. The flower tubes widen into flared faces that display the color clearly. Wavy petal edges give the clusters additional texture. Clusters commonly carry about 6-13 blossoms. Contrasting dark red markings add detail within the flower faces.

The dark green leaves have a glossy surface that gives the foliage a distinct presence between flowering seasons. Allow space for the branches to develop without crowding nearby plants or paths.

Give it acidic, humus-rich soil that stays moist and drains freely. A sheltered position with filtered light or morning sun is a useful starting point; protect the roots from prolonged drying and keep mulch clear of the stems.

Size guide
• Height: About 6 ft at 10 years; growth continues afterward
• Width: Allow for the cultivar’s natural branch spread; a verified numerical spread is not available in this reference.

Hardiness
• Approximate cold tolerance: -10°F
• USDA cold-limit equivalent: Zone 6a
This equivalence is calculated from the published temperature rating. Local conditions and summer climate also affect performance.

Best Uses
• Border
• Woodland Gardens
• Accent Plant

Plant type

Broadleaf Evergreen, Evergreen Shrub, Flowering evergreen shrub

Height

6 ft+

Width

5 '

Hardiness zones

6a–9

Sunlight

Part shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring to summer

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Acidic, Humus rich, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Woodland Gardens

Shape

Spreading

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

No

Fragrant

No

Deer resistant

No

Salt tolerant

No

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

6 ft