Rhododendron Polar Bear

Rhododendron 'Polar Bear' is a vigorous variety with a large growth habit, ideal in an ericaceous bed. Its summer flowering offers large white trumpet-shaped inflorescences that emit a fragrance reminiscent of Lilies. This bush has a very upright habit and is adorned with emerald green foliage. An aromatic and visual spectacle in July and August!

Rhododendron 'Polar Bear' is a hybrid between R. auriculatumand R. diapretes, a variety obtained by John Barr Stevenson in 1926. The result is an extremely vigorous and splendid plant (characteristics inherited from auriculatum) that flowers late (typical of diapetres). Unlike the majority of rhododendrons, this large variety is a summer star with its late flowering as magnificent as it is fragrant. Its inflorescences appear in July and August, in corymbs of large white tubular flowers. This very tall cultivar can reach a height of 5m (16ft) or more if it is happy with its location. It will also spread in width! The bush with its ample habit has young shoots of a bluish hue and large evergreen leaves of an emerald green colour.

Rhododendron 'Polar Bear' is an ericaceous bush. It will find its place in shade or partial shade as its flowers will be damaged by the sun. The soil must be moist, humus-rich, and well-drained, with an acidic pH, it does not tolerate limestone. The last condition is that it must be planted sheltered from prevailing winds. It is a hardy plant that can withstand temperatures down to -12°C (10.4°F), like the majority of rhododendrons. Plant Rhododendron 'Polar Bear' in an ericaceous bed, as a specimen plant, or in a hedge. In the case of a bed, it should be cultivated in the background due to its strong growth. Combine it with Chinese azaleas, andromedas (Pieris), mountain laurels (Kalmia), Japanese maples (Acer japonicum), or other smaller rhododendrons at maturity such as the 'Bloombux', 'Percy Wiseman', or the surprising R. linearifolium cultivars.