Roseum Elegans Rhododendron
Rhododendron 'Roseum Elegans'
Ericaceae · broadleaf evergreen shrub · introduced
Last updated
A dense, spreading, vigorous evergreen shrub reaching 6 feet in 10 years and 10 to 12 feet at maturity. Funnel-shaped rosy lavender flowers with reddish-brown dorsal spotting, aging to pink, 2⅜ inches wide, carried in ball-shaped trusses of about 20 blooms. Late-midseason flowering. A catawbiense hybrid bred by Anthony Waterer at Knap Hill Nursery, UK (RHS 58).
One of the most climate-adaptable elepidote hybrids: cold hardiness to -25°F (Zone 4b-8a) combined with notable heat tolerance. A Waterer "ironclad" cultivar with vigorous growth, very long lifespan, and broad exposure tolerance. Mature specimens commonly exceed 10 feet and persist for decades. Full sun to part shade on acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5-6.0). Moderate-fast growth rate. Not a foundation choice; requires substantial space. 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 25-May 15 |
| Full bloom BBCH 65 | May 1-May 20 |
| Bloom end BBCH 69 | May 15-Jun 5 |
| Bud set BBCH 55-59 | Jul 15-Sep 15 |