If you’re looking for a dynamic addition to your landscape, and crave deliciously deep color, the Polarnacht – or Polar Night – Rhododendron is for you. Layer this with evergreens to add a sense of mystery and privacy for Meditation Gardens, or near patios.

Rich, vibrant wine-colored flowers develop on long trusses above attractive evergreen foliage. Every bloom is daubed with scarlet red “splotch” for added depth.

This compact variety stays short and has a unique spreading form. Use this in a carefully cultivated, elegant Japanese-style Zen garden so you can truly study how these beautiful plants grow and change. Butterflies and hummingbirds love them, too.

For best performance, ensure it’s planted in fast-draining, acidic soil for best performance. Replicate their natural habitat of thin mountain soil by creating a mound or raised bed 18 inches tall. Amend the soil with pine needle soil conditioner, peat moss and perlite pellets.

“Mound up” by planting them in a shallower hole than usual. Leave several inches of root ball showing above ground. Then, cover with a thick layer of pine mulch (avoid touching the mulch to the stem.) Keep these evenly moist and pull weeds as they appear.

This is a lovely variety that’s in very high demand. Order now and consider this your lucky day!