Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder

Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder is a red flowering evergreen dwarf rhododendron with the RHS AGM. It is possibly one of the best of the dwarf red-flowering hybrids and is certainly one of Europe’s most popular. It suits small garden spaces and containers. Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder is a Forrestii Repens hybrid bred from the Forrestii rhododendrons which are naturally red flowering compact shrubs.

The year-round foliage is small, bright green and ribbed on attractive brown stems. Around May time, dark red buds open to deep red flowers held in trusses of seven. The edges are frilled and the long delicate stamens match the cardinal red of the petals. Flowers last for weeks and new buds frequently emerge. This is a stunning free-flowering low-growing rhododendron that brightens gardens with little maintenance. 

Height And Spread of Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder
Low-growing, compact, and dense Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder will grow to 1.5 metres in height and spread over 10-20 years. 

How Hardy Is Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder
It’s hardy down to minus temperatures if the roots are well-drained. It prefers a sheltered aspect out of the freezing wind and hot sun.

How To Use Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder
Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder is a statement plant for mid-spring. It suits acidic soil flower beds and because it is a dwarf cultivar it will grow in a large well-watered and fed container too. Its compact size means it can fit into most spaces including small town gardens. It suits rock gardens Japanese style spaces and cottage gardens.

Container grown Scarlet Wonder brightens dull decks, patios, and balconies with year-round evergreen foliage and a burst of bright red in May.

How To Care For Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder
Rhododendron Scarlet Wonder is one of the easiest rhododendrons to grow. It prefers rich, acidic soil with good drainage so add ericaceous compost and mulch each year if your soil is poor or chalky. Be sure you don’t bury the roots too deeply as rhododendrons are shallow-rooted shrubs.

You can also grow Scarlet Wonder in a container of ericaceous compost if you regularly apply water and rhododendron feed.

Scarlet Wonder enjoys sunlight but not too much heat. Plant it in light dappled shade and shelter from harsh drying winds and baking afternoon sun.

There’s no need to prune, but if you want to restrict its size, trim branch tips before the new spring growth.