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Key characteristics

Family: Ericaceae
Height: 3 to 6 feet
Width: 3 to 6 feet
Flower color: Clusters of showy flowers ranging from white to various shades of pink
Foliage color: Variegated foliage with patches or streaks of light and dark green, accented by cream or white markings
Bloom time: Spring or early summer
Light: Partial to full shade
Water: Regular
Maintenance: Occasional pruning
Growing zone: USDA zones 6 to 9
Wildlife: May attract pollinators

Shrubs

Rhododendron ‘Unique’ Variegated

Unique Variegated Rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Unique' Variegated is an attractive cultivar renowned for its striking foliage adorned with variegated patterns of light and dark green, accented by cream or white markings. Its irregular patches or streaks create an arresting contrast against the backdrop of dark green leaves. This cultivar also produces clusters of showy flowers ranging from white to various shades of pink in spring or early summer.

Thriving in partial to full shade and acidic, well-drained soil, 'Unique' Variegated requires regular watering and occasional pruning to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.

Light

Partial to full shade

Water

Regular

Bloom time

Spring or early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Shade Gardens
Foundation Plantings
Cottage Gardens
Woodland Gardens

Companion plants

Skimmia · Japanese maple · Ajuga · Autumn fern · Snowdrops · Hellebore

Design tip

Brighten a shaded planting with ‘Unique’ Variegated, allowing its cream-marked foliage to lighten areas. Keep surrounding foliage relatively simple so the irregular variegation remains distinctive rather than making the planting feel overly patterned or visually busy.