Rhododendron atlanticum Snowbird

A small, graceful, Exbury hybrid azalea, Rhododendron atlanticum Snowbird is a medium-sized, deciduous shrub with a compact, rounded, bushy habit. The oblong leaves are blue-green, a beautiful foil for the flowers, and turn shades of orange and red in autumn. From late April to early June, delicate white flowers, flushed with pink, appear, with a lovely, sweet fragrance which carries on the air. Mulch well in spring to conserve moisture round the rather shallow roots. Particularly mildew resistant. With its smaller size, Azalea Snowbird is very good in a border in a small garden with acid soil.

Site: Best in a sheltered site
Soil: Moist but well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil
Position: Best in partial shade; tolerates full sun in reliably moist, humus-rich soil
Season of interest: Mid-spring to early summer
Hardiness: Very hardy
Height: up to 5 (1.5m) Spread: 5 (1.5m)