The spring-like temperatures may be teasing us as we enter February, but the warmer weather is a good reminder to be thinking about this year’s landscape planting plans as we prepare for spring. One of my favorite plants for Knoxville landscape designs is the PJM Rhododendron. Here’s why I like it …
Plant Name
PJM Rhododendron: Rhododendron x PJM
What It Looks Like
The PJM Rhododendron is on the smaller side of most Rhododendron choices, reaching 4-5 feet tall and wide. It has oblong-shaped evergreen foliage and large clusters of light pink and slightly purple blooms.
Where to Use It
It needs to be planted in a mostly shady spot, if not full shade, to protect it from scorching during Knoxville’s hot summer months, and is best planted in the spring. I like to pair PJM Rhododendrons with other shade-loving plants such as Pieris: Cavatine and Prelude (dwarf varieties) and Mountain Fire, ferns such as Autumn Fern and Japanese Painted Fern, or other shade lovers such as Spreading Plum Yew and Oakleaf Hydrangea.
For the biggest impact, you can use in mass plantings for a solid look or as a foundation plant or border plant. For just the right spot, you can also use PJM Rhododendrons as a specimen plant, drawing attention to its blooms in late spring.
Contact Us
For help designing just the right planting bed for your next landscape design project in Knoxville, fill out our contact form or call us at 865-765-5550.
