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Public Plant Profile

Nova Zembla Rhododendron

Rhododendron x 'Nova Zembla'

Category: Evergreen Shrub • Rhododendron

Nova Zembla Rhododendron offers vibrant blooms and evergreen foliage, perfect for shaded landscapes.

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Mature Height: 4-6 feet

Mature Width: 4-6 feet

Bloom Color: Red

Bloom Time: Spring

Light: Part Sun/Part Shade

Zone: Zones 4-7

Maintenance: Moderate

Growth Rate: Moderate

Season of Interest: Spring

Foliage: Evergreen

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Bold Outdoors Verified Insight

Designed & Reviewed by

Josh Graber

Owner and Landscape Designer · Kansas State University · 25+ Years Experience

B.S. in Horticulture and Landscape Design – Kansas State University

25+ years of industry experience

Description

Nova Zembla Rhododendron is a hardy evergreen shrub known for its stunning clusters of large, vibrant red flowers. It thrives in acidic soils and is ideal for adding color to gardens and landscapes.

Ideal Conditions

Prefers partial to full shade and well-drained soil. Requires consistent moisture and benefits from a sheltered location.

Soil Preferences

Thrives in acidic, well-drained soils with good moisture retention. Adaptable to various soil types but prefers a pH of 5.0 to 6.0.

Sun Needs

Part Sun/Part Shade

Watering Needs

Requires regular watering, especially during dry spells; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.

Pruning Notes

Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Fertilizing Notes

Fertilize in early spring with an acid-based fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooms.

Common Issues

Susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils and can face issues with pests like lace bugs.

Landscape Guidance

Landscape Use

foundation plantingspecimenmass planting

Special Features

Showy flowersevergreen foliage

Wildlife Value

Attracts pollinators and provides habitat for birds.

Resistance / Tolerance

Moderate drought tolerance.

Notes from Our Designer

Great for adding color in shaded areas. Consider grouping for a more dramatic effect.

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Design Ideas Using This Plant

Use this page to get a feel for where Nova Zembla Rhododendron may fit in the landscape, then explore similar plants below for more ideas on form, texture, and overall planting style.

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Helpful Next Steps

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nova Zembla Rhododendron a good fit for Kansas City landscapes?

That depends on sun exposure, moisture, spacing, and how the plant will be used in the overall design. Bold Outdoors evaluates those practical conditions before recommending a plant broadly.

How should homeowners use this plant information?

Use the plant profile as a planning tool for size, conditions, and visual role, then connect it to the broader landscape design and installation plan for the property.

Next Step

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