Nova Zembla Rhododendron

Light Needs

Full Shade to Partial Sun

(0 - 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

7-9 Feet

Mature Spread

7-9 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

With its clusters of stunning cardinal red flowers contrasted against the glossy, thick leaves Nova Zembla is sure to draw attention in the landscape. The trumpet-shaped blooms with a maroon blotched throat start flowering in April or May on a 6 to 8 foot plant with a spread of 5 to 7 feet. 

A low maintenance, heat tolerant evergreen the sheer size of this rhododendron make it an excellent choice for use as a living privacy wall, foundation planting, hedge or specimen planting. May do well in a container or pot large enough to support it as it is winter hardy in zones 4 to 8. Drought tolerant but would appreciate some protection in winter from the wind. 

Nova Zembla Rhododendron Care 

Happiest growing in partial or dappled sunlight this rhododendron would do well in moist but well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. An application of peat moss and either cow manure or compost would benefit it at time of planting. 

Deadheading past blossoms will help stimulate the plant to produce new growth. Pruning is best immediately after flowering as not to affect next year's buds and may be done to help shape the plant. 

Nova Zembla Rhododendron Spacing 

Due to their large size Nova Zembla does best with a spacing of 6 to 8 feet to allow for optimum growth. It would make an excellent informal hedge or fondation plant and with winter protection would do well in a pot or planter large enough to accommodate its size. A pot or container size of at least 3 feet high to 3 feet wide would be best.