Gomer Waterer Rhododendron
Rhododendron 'Gomer Waterer'
Ericaceae · broadleaf evergreen shrub · introduced
Last updated
A spreading, broad-domed evergreen shrub reaching 6 feet in 10 years and 8 to 10 feet at maturity. Openly funnel-shaped white flowers flushed mauve-pink at the edges with a yellow-brown flare on the upper lobe, about 3 inches wide, carried in dome-shaped trusses of up to 24 blooms. Midseason to late-midseason flowering. A hybrid of 'Madame Carvalho' crossed with 'Pink Pearl', bred by John Waterer (RHS 58).
Among the largest white truss displays in commerce, with trusses carrying up to 24 flowers each. Heat resistant and sun tolerant. Hardy to -15°F (Zone 5b-9a). Full sun to part shade on acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5-6.0). Thick leathery foliage holds well through winter. Substantial mature size (8 to 10 feet) means this is not a foundation plant. 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 | May 1-May 18 |
| Full bloom BBCH 65 | May 8-May 25 |
| Bloom end BBCH 69 | May 20-Jun 10 |
| Bud set BBCH 55-59 | Jul 15-Sep 15 |