Anna Rose Whitney Rhododendron

A vigorous, upright evergreen shrub that becomes a substantial presence in the landscape, reaching 6 to 7 feet in 10 years and exceeding 10 feet at maturity. Large funnel-shaped flowers, up to 4 inches wide, are deep rose pink with brown spotting in the throat, carried in ball-shaped trusses of 12 to 21 blooms. Late-midseason flowering. A hybrid of R. griersonianum crossed with 'Countess of Derby', bred by Whitney (RHS 58). OSU rates flower quality 4, plant and foliage 3, and performance 5 on a 1-5 scale.

Sun-tolerant, though flower color holds better with some afternoon shade. Hardy to -5°F (Zone 7a-9a). Full sun to part shade on acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5-6.0). Among the largest-flowered elepidote hybrids in common cultivation; the deeply colored trusses are visible from a distance. Vigorous growth and ultimate size require substantial space and make this a poor choice for foundation plantings. Twenty-one diseases and 15 pests documented at the genus level. All parts contain grayanotoxins and are toxic if ingested.