Rhododendron Francesca

Francesca Rhododendron

Francesca (Rhododendron ‘Francesca’) is an evergreen rhododendron with red flowers. Its display arrives in the later part of the rhododendron flowering season, with the exact timing influenced by local weather. Individual flowers measure about 3½ inches across. The blooms open with a bell-like outline. Clusters commonly carry about 19-25 blossoms.

The plant develops a rounded outline and an open branch structure. Its foliage is retained through winter, keeping a leafy framework 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

4-6 '

Hardiness zones

6a–8

Sunlight

Part shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Spring to summer

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Attracts

Bees, Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Humus rich, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Woodland Gardens

Shape

Open Canopy, Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

No

Fragrant

No

Deer resistant

No

Salt tolerant

No

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

6 ft