Polar Night Rhododendron

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Partial Sun

(3 - 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

2-3 Feet

Mature Spread

5-6 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 8

Rhododendrons are the divas of the late summer garden. They burst into bloom for a short time, but steal the show from any other plant for those few weeks. Polar Night Rhododendron may be short in height, but the deep, black wine colored buds and blooms really pack a punch. The dark evergreen leaves make a great framework for other perennials and shrubs for 4 months of the year.

Polar Night is a wide spreading Rhododendron that makes a great specimen plant in the ground or in a container. The dramatic spreading branches make it a great fit for an Asian inspired garden, cottage garden, Pacific Northwest plan or a modern minimalist planting. This low-profile shrub is a great candidate for use along a walkway or at the front of a woodland planting where it can be examined up close. Rhododendrons have few pests or diseases and are almost never browsed by deer. 

Polar Night Rhododendron Care

Polar Night prefers all of the usual Rhododendron requirements. Partly sunny to partly shady location. In the hottest hardiness zones afternoon shade is an absolute must have. Well drained and acidic soil helps to support vigorous and healthy foliage. Moderately rich soil will encourage profuse spring blooming. Mulching in the fall with organic compost or leaves helps to protect the shrub's roots and improves the fertility and moisture holding capacity of the soil over time.

Pruning should not be needed often for Polar Night. If shaping is needed, prune after blooming has ended. The next year's blooms form on previous seasons' growth. Fertilize Polar Night early in the spring before blooming. Use a well balanced, slow release food that is formulated for acid loving plants. Consistent and even watering is required to help Rhododendrons establish well. Supplemental irrigation may be needed during periods of extended dry and hot weather, even after this shrub matures. Watering using soaker hoses and drip irrigation is best. Keeping excess moisture off of the evergreen leaves will help to keep away mildews or molds that can for early and late in the growing season.

Polar Night Rhododendron Spacing

Polar Night matures to a height of 2-3 feet and a width of 5-6 feet. Space plants at 5 feet on center when planting in a hedge or with other Rhododendrons. Pots need to be at least a 24 inch diameter and have excellent drainage if growing in a container.