Rhododendron stenopetalum 'Purple Dragon'

Nuccio's Purple Dragon Azalea

Family: Ericaceae
Height: 3 to 5 ft
Width: 3 to 5 ft
Flower color: Rich purple to violet, narrow spider-like petals with a lighter throat
Foliage color: Evergreen medium to dark green leaves, narrow and glossy
Bloom time: Mid to late spring
Light: Part shade to filtered sun
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; minimal pruning needed beyond light shaping after flowering
Growing zone: USDA zones 7 to 9
Wildlife: Fragrant shows of spring flowers attract pollinators; evergreen foliage provides shelter and cover for birds and small wildlife

About this plant

Rhododendron stenopetalum 'Purple Dragon' is an evergreen azalea with narrow, willow-like leaves and a rounded, mounding habit. In mid-spring, it produces large flowers in lilac to purple tones, and divided into long, slender, strap-like segments that give the blooms a spider-like form.

'Purple Dragon' is a named selection introduced through Nuccio's Nurseries and sold as "Nuccio's Purple Dragon." It is valued for its narrow petals and refined foliage. Its spring flowering and evergreen structure suit woodland borders, containers, and prominent garden placements near paths.

Works well in

Shade Gardens · Containers · Pathways & Walkways · Woodland Gardens

Companion plants

Fatsia · Foamflower · Viola · Aucuba · Ferns · Trillium

Design tip

Keep ‘Purple Dragon’ near a walkway or entry where its unusual spider-like flowers can be appreciated at close range. Its narrow foliage also contrasts nicely with broader-leaved shrubs, helping the planting feel varied even after the distinctive spring flowers have faded.

Where to see it

This plant can be seen at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden.