Rhododendron 'Cream Crest'

Rhododendron ‘Cream Crest’

£22.00

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Description

Quick Facts
  • Common Name: Cream Crest Rhododendron
  • Botanical Name: Rhododendron ‘Cream Crest’
  • Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
  • Mature Height: 1.2-1.5m
  • Mature Spread: 1.2-1.5m
  • Flowering Period: May-June
  • Flower Colour: Creamy white with soft yellow centre
  • Foliage: Dark green, glossy 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 morning mist kissed by golden sunlight, Rhododendron ‘Cream Crest’ brings ethereal beauty to Irish gardens with its exquisite creamy white blooms that seem to float like delicate clouds above the rich evergreen foliage. This enchanting compact shrub creates moments of pure serenity, its soft-hued flowers emerging in generous clusters that capture and reflect the gentle light of our ever-changing skies.
Each elegant bloom unfolds to reveal layers of creamy white petals with the softest hint of butter-yellow at the centre, creating a luminous display that shifts subtly from pearl to cream as the flowers mature. The gentle colour palette brings a sense of calm sophistication to any garden setting, whilst the substantial flower trusses create impressive yet understated focal points in late spring displays.
The glossy dark green foliage provides year-round structure and elegance, forming a perfect evergreen backdrop that showcases the spectacular May flowering display. This beautifully proportioned variety maintains a naturally compact, rounded habit that makes it ideal for smaller Irish gardens, mixed borders, or as an elegant container specimen for patios and courtyards.
Hardy and reliable in our changeable climate, ‘Cream Crest’ thrives in woodland garden settings or sheltered positions where dappled light creates the perfect growing conditions. Plant alongside soft pink azaleas and Pieris ‘Mountain Fire’ for a romantic spring palette, or combine with white camellias and cream-flowering magnolias to create a sophisticated monochromatic garden of timeless elegance.
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 morning sun and afternoon shade, protected from strong winds and harsh weather. 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 holes. 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 natural compact shape and removes any weak or crossing branches. This variety typically forms an attractive rounded habit with minimal intervention, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens.
Water deeply at the base of the plant during dry periods, avoiding overhead watering which can mark the delicate cream-coloured blooms. The shallow fibrous roots benefit from consistent moisture and protection from temperature extremes.
This gentle beauty will grace your garden with decades of serene, sophisticated blooms, creating a living sanctuary that whispers of peace and tranquility with every flowering season.

Additional information

Pot Size

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