Rhododendron 'MOSER'S MAROON'

Rhododendrons are reliable, beautifully flowering, evergreen shrubs of variable origin: S.W. China, Himalayas, Northern America, and even Europe. The original species were hybridized several times for better performance so in the 1950´s there were more than 10,000 cultivars registered, and the number keeps increasing.

Moser’s Maroon is a gorgeous rhododendron variety that in spite of being a good old grandpa – bred already in 1922 – it still occupies the top of rhododendron charts. In mid and late spring it produces vibrant red flowers with reddish-black spots in the throat. And most probably more than its flowers the growers are fond of its foliage. The leaves emerge bright burgundy red just in the middle of flowering period, turn dark olive green in summer, and take on burgundy brown hues in autumn and winter. Though it might sound like a change of colours on deciduous plants these leaves are evergreen and broadly ovate which is a shape not common for most rhododendron varieties. Grow it in part shade or winter shade where it will make a substantial shrub with age that remains compact in soil.

For richer flowering and healthy growth dead-head where possible. The roots are shallow, spreading to sides in search for nutrients. Never plant them too deep. The soil has to be acidic (pH 4.5-5.5), rich in humus, cool and always moist. Ideal soil mixture is peat with lime-free, light garden soil topped with leaf-mould. Fully hardy to approx. -23°C (USDA zone 6), possibly more.

Last update 20-02-2012