Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Rhododendron 'Gedser Gold'
Gedser Gold Rhododendron
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Height
- 4 to 6 ft
- Width
- 4 to 6 ft
- Flower color
- Warm to bright yellow blooms, sometimes with a reddish-tinged blotch or red throat
- Foliage color
- Glossy dark green, evergreen leaves
- Bloom time
- Late spring, typically April to May
- Light
- Partial shade to part sun
- Water
- Medium
- Maintenance
- Low to moderate; deadhead spent flowers, and prune lightly
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 6 to 8
- Wildlife
- Flowers attract early-season pollinators; foliage provides shelter for small birds and garden wildlife
About this plant
Rhododendron 'Gedser Gold' is a compact evergreen shrub with dense, bushy growth and dark, glossy green foliage. In mid-spring rounded trusses of funnel-shaped flowers open in warm lemon to deep yellow tones. Each bloom shows a small red blotch or a red throat, giving gentle depth to the sunny color. The flowers are held in loose clusters above the foliage, creating a cheerful display in lightly shaded borders and woodland-style plantings.
A modern Danish hybrid, it is noted for its hardiness and reliable flowering. It performs well in cool, temperate gardens where spring conditions are mild and is often chosen for mixed rhododendron groupings, and container plantings on terraces or patios, where its yellow bloom and evergreen structure can be appreciated up close.
Works well in
Shade Gardens · Borders · Cottage Gardens · Woodland Gardens
Companion plants
Mahonias · Astilbe · Heucheras · Maidenhair fern · Corydalis · Lily-of-the-valley
Design tip
Bring ‘Gedser Gold’ close to a patio or entry where its uncommon yellow flowers can be appreciated during spring. Dark green evergreens nearby will sharpen the contrast, helping the sunny blooms stand out while maintaining a calm planting after flowering ends.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden.
