Rhododendron Blue Silver

Rhododendron Blue Silver

£22.00

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Description

Quick Facts
  • Common Name: Blue Silver Rhododendron
  • Botanical Name: Rhododendron ‘Blue Silver’
  • Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
  • Mature Height: 1.5-2m
  • Mature Spread: 1.5-2m
  • Flowering Period: May-June
  • Flower Colour: Lavender-blue with silver undertones
  • Foliage: Dark green with silvery undersides, evergreen leaves
  • Hardiness: RHS H4 (hardy in most of UK and Ireland)
  • Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil
  • Aspect: Partial shade to dappled sunlight
  • Maintenance: Low to moderate
Description
Like moonlight dancing on Irish waters, Rhododendron ‘Blue Silver’ brings ethereal beauty to gardens with its extraordinary lavender-blue blooms that shimmer with silvery undertones, creating one of nature’s most enchanting colour displays. This distinguished evergreen shrub captures the mystical quality of twilight skies, its unique flowers emerging in generous clusters that seem to change colour as light shifts throughout the day.
Each magnificent bloom unfolds to reveal layers of soft lavender-blue petals with the most delicate silver highlights that catch and reflect light like scattered stardust. The unusual colour combination creates an almost iridescent effect that appears to glow in the dappled shade of woodland gardens, whilst the substantial flower trusses provide impressive focal points that draw admiration from every visitor.
The distinctive foliage adds year-round interest with dark green leaves that reveal silvery undersides when stirred by gentle breezes, creating a beautiful two-toned effect that complements the unique flower colouring perfectly. This robust variety maintains an elegant, rounded habit that suits both formal and naturalistic garden settings, thriving in the sheltered conditions of Irish woodland gardens.
Hardy and dependable in our changeable climate, ‘Blue Silver’ combines exceptional beauty with reliable garden performance. Plant alongside white-flowering azaleas and silver-leaved artemisia to enhance the cool colour palette, or combine with soft pink camellias and cream-flowering pieris to create a sophisticated pastel garden of timeless elegance and tranquil beauty.
Caragh’s Garden Notebook
Plant in autumn or early spring in well-prepared, acidic soil enriched with ericaceous compost and plenty of leaf mould. Choose a sheltered position with dappled shade and protection from strong winds to preserve the delicate flower colouring. Space 1.5-2m apart to allow for mature spread and good air circulation.
Maintain soil acidity with annual mulching using pine needles, bark chips, or composted leaves. The ideal pH range is 4.5-6.0. Ensure consistent moisture throughout the growing season, particularly during dry spells, but avoid waterlogged conditions which can damage the root system.
For container cultivation, use ericaceous compost in a substantial pot at least 45cm wide with excellent drainage. This variety makes an outstanding specimen plant and is particularly effective when positioned where the unique flower colouring can be appreciated. Feed with rhododendron fertiliser in early spring and again after flowering.
Deadhead spent blooms carefully to encourage vigorous growth and abundant flowering the following year. Light pruning immediately after flowering helps maintain shape and removes any weak or crossing branches, though this variety naturally forms an attractive rounded habit.
Water deeply at the base of the plant during dry periods, avoiding overhead watering which can mark the delicate blue-silver blooms. The shallow root system benefits from consistent moisture and protection from temperature extremes through organic mulching.

Additional information

Pot Size

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