Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew

Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew is a low-growing and compact evergreen rhododendron with large clusters of bright yellow flowers. It suits the small garden, rock garden or raised bed.

RHS AGM holder Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew is a Dwarf Lepidote Hybrid, a group that’s also known as the Bird Hybrids hence the name ‘Curlew’. It’s a semi-dwarf low grower with small and shiny dark green oval leaves that set off its stunning mid-spring flowers. Around April or May masses of clusters of flowers appear. Flowers are large, bright yellow bell-shaped blooms spotted with red-brown dots. They grow in compact trusses of three and measure five centimetres across.

Height And Spread of Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew
Rhododendron Curlew will grow to a maximum height and spread of 60 cms over 5-10 years. It’s one of the lowest growing compact rhododendrons.

How Hardy Is Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew
Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew is hardy if its roots are well-drained. It doesn’t like deep shade or too much heat.

How To Use Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew
If you love rhododendrons but don’t have much space this is a great choice. It doesn’t get bigger than 60 cms all over so suits a small acid soil border in a cottage-style garden, a rock garden, or a Japanese style space. It's easy to grow in a container of ericaceous compost, but it must be regularly watered and fed to thrive.

Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew is low maintenance and once planted in a suitable spot can be left to its own devices.

How To Care For Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew
Dwarf Rhododendron Curlew prefers rich, acid soil with good drainage so add ericaceous compost and mulch each year if your soil is poor or chalky. You can also grow it in a large container of ericaceous compost if you regularly apply water and rhododendron feed. Be sure not to bury the roots too deeply as rhododendrons are shallow-rooted shrubs.

This rhododendron enjoys sunlight but not too much heat, so avoid deep shade and direct afternoon sun. Dappled shade in a position sheltered from wind is best.
There’s no need to prune rhododendrons, but if you want to restrict their size, trim branch tips before the new spring growth appears.