Solidarity Rhododendron
Rhododendron 'Solidarity'
Ericaceae · broadleaf evergreen shrub · introduced
Last updated
A dense, well-shaped evergreen shrub reaching 4 feet in 10 years and 5 to 6 feet at maturity. Openly funnel-shaped flowers with wavy edges, 3 inches wide, purplish-red margins shading to light purplish-pink in the throat with purplish-red dorsal spotting, carried in dome-shaped trusses of 12 to 13 flowers. Midseason bloom. A hybrid of 'The Honourable Jean Marie de Montague' crossed with R. degronianum subsp. yakushimanum, bred by Schannen (ARS #912).
A hardier, more compact version of Jean Marie de Montague's coloration on a yakushimanum-derived plant form. The color gradient from purplish-red margins to light pink throat produces a multi-tone truss effect. Sparse light tan indumentum adds textural interest to the foliage underside. Hardy to -15°F (Zone 5b-9a). Part shade to full sun on acidic, well-drained soil (pH 4.5-6.0). Compact enough to fit more landscape positions than Jean Marie itself. 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 |