Rhododendron Milestone

Milestone (Rhododendron ‘Milestone’) is an partly evergreen rhododendron with red 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 3-10 blossoms.

The plant develops compact branching and a dense crown. The green leaves have a glossy surface that gives the foliage a distinct presence between flowering seasons. Cool-season foliage can develop orange and red tones. It can provide a flowering focal point within a mixed shrub border or woodland-edge planting.

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 3 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: -15°F
• USDA cold-limit equivalent: Zone 5b
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

Flowering Shrub, Semi Evergreen

Height

3 ft+

Width

24'-36'

Hardiness zones

5b–6

Sunlight

Part shade

Bloom time

Spring to summer

Flower color

Red

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Orange, Red

Fruit color

Brown

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Humus rich, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Woodland Gardens

Shape

Compact, Dense

Fruit

No

Fragrant

No

Deer resistant

No

Salt tolerant

No

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

3 ft