Rhododendron pachypodum, Madden Rhododendron

  USDA Cold Hardiness Zone: 8 to 9. Mine grow well enough here in 9a-ish where there is snow and hard frost. Hardiness depends on the clone. Native Range:  Southeast to East Asia. Soil: Well drained, low pH.  Light: Light shade, morning sun.  Height in the Garden: 8' Attributes: Madden group Rhododendrons typically have medium to large white to light colored, highly fragrant flowers. The leaves are lepidote and the plant has a moderately dense structure. Flowers come out in spring and are an absolute treasure. Notes: I never used to like Rhododendrons for some reason, then I was introduced to the Madden group. Now I am an incurable rhodie addict. The Maddens, and the Tsutsusi group, though there are many species to love. R. pachypodum is not readily available or widely cultivated. My plants are flowering size/age. Uses: Specimen shrub, flowering shrub.