Rhododendron Polar Bear

Polar Bear (Rhododendron ‘Polar Bear’) is an evergreen rhododendron with white flowers. Its display arrives toward the end of the rhododendron flowering season, with the exact timing influenced by local weather. Individual flowers measure about 4 inches across. The flower tubes widen into flared faces that display the color clearly. The flowers are fragrant. Clusters commonly carry about 8-10 blossoms.

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: -5°F
• USDA cold-limit equivalent: Zone 6b
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

12'

Hardiness zones

6b+

Sunlight

Part shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Spring to summer

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Attracts

Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Humus rich, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Woodland Gardens

Fruit

No

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

No

Salt tolerant

No

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

6 ft