Rhododendron Mandarin Lights

Northern Lights Hybird

Mandarin Lights (Rhododendron ‘Mandarin Lights’) is a deciduous azalea with orange 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 2¼ inches across. The flower tubes widen into flared faces that display the color clearly. Wavy petal edges give the clusters additional texture. The flowers are fragrant. Clusters commonly carry about 7-10 blossoms. Contrasting orange markings add detail within the flower faces.

The plant develops upright branching and a rounded outline. The shrub sheds its leaves for winter, making its seasonal foliage and flower display especially noticeable. 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: -35°F
• USDA cold-limit equivalent: Zone 3b
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

Deciduous Shrub, Flowering Deciduous Shrub

Height

6 ft+

Width

5'-8'

Hardiness zones

3b–7

Sunlight

Part shade

Bloom time

Spring to summer

Flower color

Orange

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Bronze, Red

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Humus rich, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Woodland Gardens

Shape

Open Canopy, Rounded, Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

No

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

No

Salt tolerant

No

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

6 ft