Rhododendron Lilac Dufthecke Inkarho - Rhododendron, Azalea

The Rhododendron Inkarho Lilac Dufthecke is part of a new series of varieties with fragrant flowers, the "Scented Hedge" series, grafted like all Inkharo rhododendrons onto a plant much more tolerant of clayey, loamy or slightly chalky soils. Lilac Scented Hedge is an evergreen bush, wider than tall, with vigorous growth, bearing a profusion of spring flowers in a distinguished lilac shade, lighter in the centre and darker at the edges, with hints of purple-pink and a slight coppery throat. Hone-producing with a subtle yet present fragrance, it's a new generation of Rhododendron that challenges our preconceptions; it is as tolerant as a hydrangea, hardy and easy to grow.

Rhododendrons encompass over 800 species of the Ericaceae family, cultivated for the beauty of their flowering. The history of Inkharo Rhododendrons, somewhat revolutionary plants recently introduced at the Chelsea Flower Show, began in Germany over 20 years ago. The discovery of a rhododendron naturally growing in a chalk quarry led to the grafting of different varieties onto its extraordinary root system. Shrubs produced by this method tolerate a wide range of soils with a pH ranging from 4.5 to 7.5, provided they are loose, fertile, moist, and not excessively chalky. In summary, soil suitable for hydrangeas. Lilac Scented Hedge forms a medium-sized bush with a spreading habit. Its growth is vigorous, usually reaching 1.50 m in height and 2 m in width at maturity. Its beautiful dark green, evergreen leaves are elliptical and cover the plant well. They have a fuzzy underside. From mid-May to early June, its abundant flowering engulfs the bush: clustered in corymbs, its slightly frilled lilac flowers are adorned with a coppery throat. Touches of purple-pink embellish the flowers here and there.

It is high time for Rhododendrons to break free from acidic soil: this is now possible with the new Inkarho varieties! Moreover, with this Scented Hedge series, they are fragrant and vigorous in growth, in addition to having a particularly abundant and nectar-rich flowering. Rhododendron Lilac Scented Hedge is relatively tolerant in terms of exposure; we recommend planting it in non-scorching sun or partial shade, ideally to the east where it will benefit from the morning sun while being protected from excessive heat. In the garden, as a hedge or in a border, its abundant and bright flowering will easily brighten a shaded space. Much more tolerant than usual rhododendrons, it pairs, in a more classic way, with many other flowering bushes, not necessarily in acidic soil: hydrangeas, mock oranges, Japanese quince trees, butterfly bushes, abelias, or autumn camellias. Japanese anemones will also be good companions, as well as lungworts and foxgloves in the understory.