1 / 5

Key characteristics

Family: Ericaceae
Height: 8 feet in 20 years
Width: 8 feet
Flower color: Purple-pink, funnel-shaped flowers
Foliage color: Deep green leaves with a vibrant golden splash
Bloom time: Spring
Light: Prefers sunny or part shaded areas
Water: Needs moist but well-drained soil
Maintenance: Low, thrives in sheltered settings
Growing zone: USDA Zones 5 to 9
Wildlife: Bees and butterflies

Shrubs

Rhododendron x 'Goldflimmer'

Goldflimmer Rhododendron

Rhododendron x 'Goldflimmer' is an evergreen shrub admired for its unique variegated foliage and clusters of soft lavender-pink flowers. Blooming in late spring, the rounded trusses of blooms often display subtle spotting within the throat, adding a touch of detail to their pastel hues. The flowers create a delicate contrast with the plant's dark green leaves, which are adorned with golden-yellow splashes that persist year-round.

Light

Prefers sunny or part shaded areas

Water

Needs moist but well-drained soil

Bloom time

Spring

Find this plant

Works well in

Sun Gardens
Foundation Plantings
Cottage Gardens
Specimen Plants

Companion plants

Irises · Peruvian lily · Aster · Pampas grass · Stonecrop · Fothergilla

Design tip

Showcase ‘Goldflimmer’ where its gold-splashed foliage can break up a broad expanse of solid green shrubs throughout the year. Nearby plants with simpler leaves will emphasize the variegation while allowing its soft spring flowers to remain a secondary seasonal accent.

Printable plant sheet (PDF)