Rhododendron 'Nova Zembla' is a cold hardy evergreen rhododendron known for its large trusses of vivid red flowers with dark maroon markings. Its glossy green foliage and upright form make it a bold presence in shade gardens or woodland borders.
Height & Spread: 6 - 8 ft x 5 - 7 ft
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Part shade to dappled sun
Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, acidic soil
Watering Needs: Regular watering, especially in dry spells
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant
Native Status
This cultivar is derived from hybrid rhododendron species and is not native, though it is widely adapted in ornamental landscapes.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Visited by bumblebees and other native bees during its spring bloom period.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations
- Space 5 - 7 ft apart to accommodate mature width and airflow between plants.
Landscape Placement
- Ideal for foundation plantings, shaded mixed borders, or as a specimen in woodland gardens. Works well in acidic soils and with other ericaceous plants.
Companion Plants
- Leucothoe fontanesiana (Drooping Leucothoe) - Offers evergreen texture and shade compatibility with similar soil preferences.
- Pieris japonica (Japanese Andromeda) - Adds early spring interest and pairs well with rhododendron in woodland borders.
- Fothergilla major (Large Fothergilla) - Provides fragrant white blooms and fall color in acidic soils.
- Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern) - A native evergreen fern for ground level texture beneath rhododendrons.
- Hydrangea quercifolia (Oakleaf Hydrangea) - Adds contrasting leaf form and summer blooms for seasonal layering.