Bruce Briggs Rhododendron
Rhododendron 'Bruce Briggs'
Ericaceae · broadleaf evergreen shrub · introduced
Last updated
A compact, dwarf evergreen shrub reaching 3 feet tall and wide in 10 years, notable for an unusual color shift: funnel-shaped flowers open red to coral and gradually reveal cream-colored centers. Midseason bloom. A hybrid of 'Seaview Sunset' crossed with (R. pseudochrysanthum × 'Etta Burrows'), bred by Fujioka in 1998 and named in memoriam for nurseryman Bruce Briggs of Olympia, Washington.
Hardy to approximately 0°F (Zone 7a-9a). Part shade to full sun on acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5-6.0). The red-to-cream color shift is uncommon among small-format rhododendrons and gives the trusses a bicolor effect at peak bloom. Compact enough for container culture or small garden spaces. Twenty-one diseases and 15 pests documented at the genus level. All parts contain grayanotoxins and are toxic if ingested.
Quick Facts
Root Colonization (Spring–Fall)
Infection at Bud Break
Apothecia Formation & Spore Release
Aecial Stage (Alternate Host)
+ 13 more — see full disease and pest lists below
Phenological Calendar
| Stage | Typical Window |
|---|---|
| Bud swell BBCH 01-03 | Mar 15-Apr 15 |
| Bloom start BBCH 61 | Apr 20-May 5 |
| Full bloom BBCH 65 | Apr 28-May 12 |
| Bloom end BBCH 69 | May 8-May 25 |
| Bud set BBCH 55-59 | Jul 15-Sep 15 |