Rhododendron Arends Favorit

Like a cherished family heirloom passed down through generations of gardeners, Rhododendron ‘Arends Favorit’ brings timeless elegance to Irish gardens with its exquisite soft pink blooms that seem to capture the gentle blush of dawn breaking over our emerald countryside. This beloved compact evergreen shrub has earned its place as a true favourite, creating moments of pure romance with flowers that emerge in perfectly proportioned clusters above the lustrous dark green foliage.

Each delicate bloom unfolds to reveal layers of soft pink petals with deeper rose-pink edges that create a beautiful graduated effect, adding depth and sophistication to the overall display. The gentle colour palette shifts subtly in changing light, appearing almost pearl-like in morning mist and warming to soft rose in afternoon sunshine. The substantial flower trusses create impressive yet refined focal points that complement any garden style.

This beautifully mannered variety maintains a naturally compact, rounded habit that makes it absolutely perfect for smaller Irish gardens, mixed borders, or as an elegant container specimen for patios and courtyards. The glossy dark green foliage provides year-round structure and elegance, creating an attractive evergreen presence that showcases the spectacular late spring flowering display to perfection.

Hardy and dependable in our changeable climate, ‘Arends Favorit’ thrives in woodland garden settings or sheltered positions where gentle morning light gives way to afternoon protection. Plant alongside white-flowering azaleas and cream-flowering pieris for a romantic cottage garden palette, or combine with purple heathers and silver-leaved artemisia to create a sophisticated mixed border of enduring charm.

Plant in autumn or early spring in well-prepared, acidic soil enriched with ericaceous compost and plenty of organic matter. Choose a sheltered position with dappled shade and protection from strong winds to preserve the delicate flower colouring. Space 1.2-1.5m apart to allow for natural 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 shallow root system.

For container cultivation, use ericaceous compost in a pot at least 40cm wide with excellent drainage. This variety is particularly well-suited to container growing and makes an outstanding patio specimen. 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 the naturally compact shape, though this variety typically requires minimal intervention due to its excellent natural form.

Water deeply at the base of the plant during dry periods, avoiding overhead watering which can mark the delicate pink blooms. The shallow root system benefits from consistent moisture and a cool root run provided by organic mulching.