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Key characteristics

Family: Ericaceae
Height: 2 to 4 ft
Width: 3 to 4 ft
Flower color: Rose-red tubular flowers
Foliage color: Glossy dark green, evergreen leaves
Bloom time: Mid spring (April)
Light: Part shade to filtered light
Water: Moderate
Maintenance: Low; deadhead spent flowers; may need occasional light pruning
Growing zone: USDA zones 6 to 8
Wildlife: Spring flowers attract bees and other pollinators; foliage provides shelter for small birds and garden wildlife

Shrubs

Rhododendron 'Leo Friedman'

Leo Friedman Rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Leo Friedman' is a compact evergreen shrub with a rounded framework and smooth, heart-shaped deep green leaves. In early spring, it bears loose trusses of small, tubular blooms that open in a warm, glowing red. The flowers appear in generous numbers, creating a bright display just as many woody plants begin to leaf out, adding welcome early-season color to shaded or woodland settings.

Bred in Tacoma, Washington, 'Leo Friedman' reflects the influence of its Chinese species parent, Rhododendron strigillosum.

Light

Part shade to filtered light

Water

Moderate

Bloom time

Mid spring (April)

Find this plant

Works well in

Shade Gardens
Borders
Cottage Gardens
Woodland Gardens

Companion plants

Fatsia · Foamflower · Viola · Aucuba · Ferns · Trillium

Design tip

Feature ‘Leo Friedman’ where its early red flowers can enliven a shaded planting before much of the surrounding garden reaches its spring peak. Its compact form works especially well beneath taller shrubs, adding a lower layer without making the planting feel crowded.