Rhododendron catawbiense 'Nova Zembla'

Nova Zembla Rhododendron

Red flowers with a slight lavender tinge form numerous trusses. The flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees, so consider the Catawba rhododendron for butterfly and pollinator gardens. Flowering occurs late April - June, depending on climate, elevation, etc. 

Glossy deep green foliage covers the plant to the ground and is attractive year-round adding interest to winter gardens and naturalized areas.

It can be a specimen, planted in small groups or mass planted and used as a hedge. More cold hardy and heat tolerant than other selections. Should be cold hardy to -25°F.

  • Broadleaf, evergreen shrub
  • Dense, rounded habit
  • Red flower clusters

  • Category: Shrub, Native
  • Hardiness Zone: 4-8
  • Height: 5-6 ft
  • Spread: 5-6 ft
  • Bloom Color: Red
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Landscape Characteristics
Branch Structure
Flowers
Foliage Color
Specialty Use
Woodland Garden
Classification by Use
Color Impact
Hedge/Screen
Mass Planting
Native
Critter Resistance
Rabbit Resistant
Habit
Spreading
Upright
Light Requirement
Part Shade
Shade
Foliage
Evergreen
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Spring
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Spring
Summer
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Moisture
Average Water
Well-Drained
Foliage Color
Green
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Rhododendron catawbiense 'Nova Zembla'

Plant in slightly shaded areas protected from strong winter sun and wind in acidic soil. After removing plants from the pot, make vertical slits with a knife through the rootball so roots make contact with the native soil and don't dry out. Conversely, make sure soil drainage is good and roots do not drown from excess water. Does not tolerate salinity. The root system is shallow so annual mulching will help retain moisture and keep soil temperatures even.