Rhododendron Lems Monarch

Delicate yet impressive in size, the Rhododendron 'Lem's Monarch' is a spectacular American hybrid that stands out for its huge flowers, grouped in inflorescences up to 30cm, its soft marginate pink colour, its long flowering period, and its adaptability!

Created by an enthusiast from the Seattle region in the 60s, the Rhododendron 'Lem's Monarch' is a truly exceptional bush. Each of its flowers measures from 10 to 12cm (4 to 5in) wide, and these corollas are grouped in conical inflorescences measuring 30cm (12in) in height! Initially carmine red in buds, the petals are a light pink marginated with bright pink on the inside. Their delicate texture resembles satin or porcelain. Flowering occurs in May, at the latest early June. Supposed to be triploid, fertilization of the rhododendron 'Lem's Monarch' is difficult: its flowers thus fade less quickly, giving it exceptional flowering both in terms of duration and dimensions.

Despite its titanic flowers, this bush remains of reasonable proportions: it will form a large bush 1.75m (6ft) tall with a width of about 2.5m (8ft) after 10 years. The evergreen foliage is abundant and sturdy, a superb dark green with a lighter central vein. It remains on the plant for two years. Each leaf measures 14 to 20cm (6 to 8in) long. Hardy down to -15°C (5°F) to -20°C, this Rhododendron tolerates sun and wind quite well and has a powerful root system that allows it to adapt to more challenging conditions than most other rhododendrons. However, it remains a plant that prefers acidic, light, airy, moist, and humus-rich soil in partial shade.

The Rhododendron 'Lem's Monarch' will be ideal in a bed or as a standalone plant. It will decorate your garden all year round and animate it in spring with its numerous bicoloured flowers in light and dark pink. Plant it alongside other acid-loving plants such as Magnolias, Pieris, Heather, Kalmias, Azaleas, and Japanese Maples.