Rhododendron yakushimanum Barbarella

Rhododendron yakushimanum 'Barbarella' is a compact bush hybrid that stands out with its unusually coloured flowering, mixing shades of orange, pink, pale red, and soft yellow. It is abundant, even on a young plant, and its large flowers are perfectly highlighted by small shiny dark green leaves. A bright and floriferous bush, with a sturdy architecture reminiscent of Japanese art, was awarded in Munich in 2005. Perfect for easily improving a small shaded area of the garden.

Rhododendrons are plants from the Ericaceae family, just like heathers, preferring mostly limestone-free soils, with an acidic tendency and humid climates. The Rhododendron yakushimanum 'Barbarella' was obtained in Germany in 1984. It forms a dense bush with a rounded habit, reaching about 1.20 m (4 ft) in all directions at maturity. Its growth is rather slow, generally reaching 65 cm (26 in) at the age of 10. Its small, shiny, evergreen, leathery leaves are elliptical in shape and cover the plant well. Flowering occurs in May. Grouped in corymbs, the light red-pink floral buds open into large funnel-shaped flowers, 10 cm (4 in) wide. The petals' undersides are tinged with orange-red, becoming pink at the edges. The interior of the flower is light yellow, bordered with salmon pink.

Like all yakushimanum hybrids, affectionately nicknamed "yak rhodos" by specialists, Rhododendron 'Barbarella' is hardy down to -15°C (5°F) and even -20°C (1°F). Although they prefer a semi-shaded exposure, these hybrids can tolerate the sun as long as it is not scorching (morning sun) and their base remains moist. 'Barbarella', with its abundant and brightly coloured flowering, will easily brighten a small, slightly shaded area of the garden, alongside ferns, blue or variegated hostas, Pieris, Azaleas, Japanese Maples, or other rhododendrons from the same group to create superb patchworks of textures and colours in spring. Container cultivation requires regular watering with non-limestone water and specific fertilizers for ericaceous plants.