Rhododendron 'Scarlet Wonder' – A Spectacular Rhododendron with Bold Red Blooms
Rhododendron 'Scarlet Wonder' is a stunning evergreen shrub known for its vibrant, scarlet-red flowers that make a bold statement in any garden. This compact variety of rhododendron produces large, showy clusters of bright red blooms in mid to late spring, providing a dramatic burst of colour that lasts for weeks. With its glossy, dark green foliage and dense, rounded growth habit, 'Scarlet Wonder' adds year-round interest to garden beds, borders, and containers. This hardy, low-maintenance shrub is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a striking, yet easy-to-care-for, plant that thrives in a variety of garden conditions.
Why Grow Rhododendron 'Scarlet Wonder'?
Bold Red Spring Blooms – The standout feature of 'Scarlet Wonder' is its eye-catching display of scarlet-red flowers. These large, showy blossoms bloom in dense clusters, creating a stunning visual impact in the spring garden and attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Evergreen Foliage – 'Scarlet Wonder' boasts glossy, dark green leaves that provide year-round structure and texture. The rich foliage serves as an elegant backdrop to the fiery red blooms in spring and ensures that the shrub remains an attractive feature throughout the year, even in winter.
Compact & Rounded Growth – This variety grows to a height of about 3 to 4 feet (90 to 120 cm) tall and has a similar spread, maintaining a compact, rounded form. Its manageable size makes it ideal for smaller gardens, borders, or containers, and it works beautifully as an accent plant or in foundation plantings.
Hardy & Low-Maintenance – 'Scarlet Wonder' is a hardy and resilient rhododendron that requires minimal care once established. It adapts well to a variety of soil types, provided they are acidic and well-drained. This low-maintenance shrub is perfect for gardeners looking for a beautiful plant with little upkeep.
Pollinator-Friendly – The rich, nectar-packed flowers of 'Scarlet Wonder' are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it a valuable addition to any garden that supports pollinators.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Prefers partial shade to full sun. While 'Scarlet Wonder' can tolerate some direct sunlight, it thrives best in areas with light, dappled shade, particularly during the hottest parts of the day. In very hot climates, it is best to provide some protection from the midday sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Soil: 'Scarlet Wonder' prefers well-drained, acidic soil. The ideal soil pH for rhododendrons is between 4.5 and 6.0. Amending the soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss will help improve drainage and create the ideal acidic environment for healthy root growth.
Watering: Water regularly to establish the root system after planting. Once established, 'Scarlet Wonder' prefers consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Keep the soil evenly moist but well-drained, as rhododendrons are sensitive to both drought and waterlogged conditions. Mulching around the base of the plant helps retain moisture and keeps the roots cool.
Maintenance:
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Prune lightly after flowering to remove spent blooms and to shape the plant. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can impact next year’s bloom production.
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Mulch around the base to help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Mulching also protects the roots in winter.
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Fertilize in early spring with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants to encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Rhododendron 'Scarlet Wonder' pairs beautifully with other shade-loving plants such as hostas, ferns, and astilbes, which provide contrast in texture and foliage beneath its glossy leaves. It also complements other rhododendrons and azaleas, either in a complementary colour palette or contrasting hues, to create a bold, dynamic display in the garden. For a striking contrast, plant 'Scarlet Wonder' alongside evergreen shrubs like boxwoods or holly, which frame the rhododendron’s rounded form and add structure to the garden. Additionally, 'Scarlet Wonder' can be used in woodland gardens, where it can brighten up shaded spaces with its vibrant blooms.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
