Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Rhododendron spinuliferum
Firecracker Rhododendron
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Height
- 6 to 10 ft
- Width
- 4 to 6 ft
- Flower color
- Bright red to scarlet tubular flowers with flared tips
- Foliage color
- Evergreen leaves, narrow and elongated, often slightly glossy
- Bloom time
- Mid to late spring
- Light
- Part sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low to moderate; prune lightly after flowering only if shaping is needed or to remove dead wood
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 8 to 10
- Wildlife
- Fragrant shows of spring flowers attract pollinators; evergreen structure provides shelter and cover for birds and small wildlife
About this plant
Rhododendron spinuliferum is an evergreen shrub with narrow, glossy green leaves and graceful arching branches. In mid to late spring, it produces clusters of long, tubular flowers held at the ends of the shoots. The blooms are typically bright red to scarlet, with a flared mouth and protruding stamens. Flowering often extends over several weeks, adding lingering color during the spring season.
This species is native to southwestern China, where it grows in open woodland and forest margins. It was introduced to Western cultivation in the early twentieth century and has been grown for its unusual flower form and evergreen structure. Its spring bloom and fine-textured foliage suit sheltered borders, and woodland gardens.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Cottage Gardens · Fragrant Gardens
Companion plants
Peonies · Alpine mint bush · Wallflower · Pampas grass · Stonecrop · Manzanita
Design tip
Set Rhododendron spinuliferum against a quieter mass of green foliage so its unusual scarlet tubular flowers become a strong spring focal point. Its arching branches soften the effect of nearby upright shrubs, bringing a looser, more graceful outline to the planting.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden.
