Rhododendron Baden-Baden

Rhododendron 'Baden Baden', named after the elegant German seaside resort, is a classic among dwarf rhododendrons. Hardy, easy to grow in acidic soil, remarkably floriferous, this compact variety is full of class: it offers a beautiful spring flowering in intense cherry red, highlighted by dark green, shiny, beautifully undulating evergreen foliage. This dwarf variety with red flowers is undoubtedly the best in its category. It can be planted in a heather bed, in front of larger shrubs, or in a large container on a shaded patio.

Rhododendrons are plants of the Ericaceae family, just like heathers, preferring soils without limestone, with a tendency towards acidity, and wet climates. Derived from a cross between the hybrid Rhododendron 'Essex Scarlet' and R. forrestii ssp forrestii 'Repens',  Rhododendron 'Baden Baden' forms a dense, rounded, slightly spreading bush, 70 cm (28in) in height and spread at maturity. Its growth is rather slow, usually reaching 50-60 cm (20-24in) at the age of 10. Its evergreen undulating leaves, very dark green and shiny, are rounded to elliptical in shape, slightly twisted, and cover the plant well. They have a lighter underside. In May-June, its remarkably abundant flowering submerges the bush: grouped in corymbs, beautiful large bell-shaped flowers with a waxy appearance, intense red with a darker red centre.

Rhododendron 'Baden Baden' is hardy down to -15°C (5°F) or even -20°C (1°F). Although they prefer semi-shade, rhododendrons can tolerate the sun as long as it is not scorching and their base remains damp. "Baden Baden", with its abundant and vibrant flowering, will easily decorate a small shaded area of the garden, alongside plants with chartreuse, purple, bronze, cream or yellow flowers or foliage, or white ferns. Colours that can be found in ferns, hostas, Pieris, heathers, or euphorbias. When paired with Kalmias, Azaleas, Japanese Maples, or other rhododendrons from the same group, it allows for the creation of superb patchworks of textures and colours in spring. Growing in containers requires regular watering with non-calcareous water and specific fertilizers for heather plants.