Boursault Rhododendron

Size

Large lavender blooms in spring, evergreen foliage and an ability to thrive in fairly shady conditions make the Boursault rhododendron an excellent addition to certain landscapes. Flowers first appear as deep purple buds before opening to a lavender with occasional reddish-brown markings. These funnel-shaped blooms appear in clusters at the end of branches and really put on a show. When planted in a well-chosen and prepared site, the Boursault rhododendron is a dependable performer with low maintenance requirements. Native to the eastern United States and hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8, this plant forms dense thickets that offer a nectar source for butterflies and shelter for birds and wildlife. The blooms and rounded shape alone can make it an interesting accent plant. This cultivar of Rhododendron catawbiense also has a dense, spreading structure that is also perfect for an informal border. It has a moderate growth rate and can tolerate urban pollution. Boursault Rhododendron Care Choosing and preparing the ideal planting site for this shrub is important. It prefers partial shade, with some protection from hot afternoon sun and strong winter winds. Its roots require well-drained soil, but do not like to dry out or overheat, so regular watering during dry weather and mulching around the shrub helps to retain moisture and keep soil temperatures cool. Additionally, rhododendrons like this one need acidic, organically-rich soil to thrive, so work compost or another organic material into the site prior to planting and occasionally apply a fertilizer for acid-loving plants. Rhododendrons bloom in the spring on growth from the previous summer, so any routine pruning should happen shortly after blooming has finished. Cut back stems about one-third in order to give the plant the desired shape. Planting a Boursault rhododendron in an improper or poorly-drained site can lead to problems with diseases and poor plant health. Boursault Rhododendron Spacing Boursault rhododendrons work well as an accent plant or as an informal hedge or border. It has a spreading branch structure and grows to be 6 to 10 feet tall and wide; plant specimens or hedges with this spacing in mind. It has shallow roots that do not like to be disturbed, so avoid planting annuals or cultivating around the shrub.