Dark Lord Rhododendron

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Partial Sun

(3 - 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

5-8 Feet

Mature Spread

5-8 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

The deepest burgundy flowers of any Rhododendron can be found on Dark Lord. The large bundles of trumpet flowers set off the equally dark green foliage perfectly. This Rhododendron would make a great single specimen shrub in a Cottage Garden or part of a larger “collection” of Rhododendrons in an established  woodland garden. The mid-May blooming puts Dark Lord in the middle of the Rhododendron blooming season. 

Rhododendrons for the  most part are self-cleaning. Their large blooms fall off when they are ready exposing the buds that will grow for next year. Deadheading makes them look more tidy, but it needs to be done carefully so the new buds are not disturbed. Beneficial pollinators flock to Rhododendrons not only because they are early bloomers, but the shape and giant size of the blooms make it easy for bees as well as hummingbirds to collect nectar.

Dark Lord Rhododendron Care

Rhododendrons need almost no care to look their best after they have been established. Plant them in average, well drained soil that is on the acidic side. Regular waiting the first couple years will be needed to get a nice strong root base. Longer watering less often will encourage their notoriously shallow growing roots to seek water deeper. Using drip irrigation or a soaker hose will help to keep the trunk and leaves dry. Rhododendrons do not like to have wet leaves. 

Rhododendrons like to be in a shadier spot the higher the hardiness zone. Especially beneficial would be late afternoon shade in the hotter climates to give the evergreen shrubs a chance to rest from the heat of the day. Protection from winter winds in the lower hardiness zones may be needed. Planting in a protected spot that gets plenty of sun will be best for the colder climates.

Dark Lord Rhododendron Spacing

Dark Lord is a medium sized Rhododendron and is useful either at the back of a smaller garden planting or in groups in the middle of a larger woodland setting. The overall size is a height of 5-8 feet with a width of 5-8 feet. Spacing is recommended at 6 feet on center.  Container growing Rhododendrons will help to keep them smaller, if that is the goal. A deep pot that has at least a 24 inch diameter is needed.