Nancy Evans Rhododendron
Rhododendron 'Nancy Evans'
Ericaceae · broadleaf evergreen shrub · introduced
Last updated
A compact, rounded evergreen shrub reaching 3 feet in 10 years and 4 to 5 feet at maturity. Openly funnel-shaped hose-in-hose flowers, 2½ inches wide, light yellow with early orange shading on the lobes and reverse, carried in ball-shaped trusses of 19 blooms. Midseason flowering. Bronze new foliage adds spring color interest before and during bloom. A hybrid of 'Hotei' crossed with 'Lem's Cameo', bred by Brockenbrough (ARS #814).
One of the most popular modern yellow elepidote hybrids, combining the warm-toned coloration of both parents with a compact garden-scale habit. The hose-in-hose flower form gives each bloom doubled petal substance. Hardy to 5°F (Zone 7b-9a). Part shade on acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5-6.0); full sun positions fade the warm color tones. Twenty-one diseases and 15 pests documented at the genus level. Cold hardiness limit is shallower than typical landscape rhododendrons; avoid cold-pocket sites. 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 |