Rhododendron 'PJM Olga Mezitt'

'PJM' 'Olga Mezitt' Rhododendron

Olga Mezitt (Rhododendron ‘Olga Mezitt’) 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 1½ 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 12 blossoms. Contrasting green markings add detail within the flower faces.

The plant develops upright branching. Its foliage is retained through winter, keeping a leafy framework between flowering seasons. Cool-season foliage can develop burgundy and yellow 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

Broadleaf Evergreen, Evergreen Shrub, Flowering evergreen shrub

Height

3 ft+

Width

3-6'

Hardiness zones

5b–8

Sunlight

Part shade

Bloom time

Spring to summer

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Yellow Green

Fall color

Burgundy, Yellow

Attracts

Hummingbirds

Soil

Acidic, Humus rich, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Border, Woodland Gardens

Shape

Upright

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

No

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

No

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

3 ft