Yaku Rhododendron (Rhododendron yakushimanum)

Yaku Rhododendron is a compact, slow-growing evergreen shrub native to Yakushima Island in southern Japan. It is prized for its tidy, dome-shaped habit, thick, leathery leaves with felted undersides, and stunning flower trusses that open pink and fade to white. Its excellent cold hardiness, neat form, and year-round appeal make it a favorite in small gardens, rock gardens, and foundation plantings.

Category

Sun Needs:

  • Partial shade to dappled sunlight
  • Prefers morning sun with afternoon shade
  • Tolerates more sun than many other rhododendrons if soil is consistently moist

Bloom Time:

  • Mid to late spring
  • Dome-shaped trusses of pink buds that open to white or pale pink flowers
  • Flowers are showy and attract pollinators
Size:

Height: 2 to 4 feet tall
Width: 3 to 5 feet wide

Attributes:
  • Compact, mounded growth habit
  • Thick, dark green leaves with silvery or rusty indumentum (fuzzy undersides)
  • Long-lasting spring blooms
  • Excellent cold hardiness (USDA Zones 5–8)
  • Low maintenance and ideal for small spaces
Care Tips:
  • Plant in acidic, well-drained, organically rich soil
  • Water regularly, especially during dry periods
  • Mulch to retain moisture and protect shallow roots
  • Avoid deep planting—set crown at soil level
  • Prune lightly after flowering to shape or remove spent blooms
  • Monitor for lace bugs and root rot in poorly drained soils

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