Rhododendron 'Point Defiance'
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Family: Ericaceae
Pronounced: ro-do-DEN-dron
GROWING GUIDE
Geographic Origin:
Garden.
Plant Group:
Shrubs.
Hardiness:
Sunset zones: 4-6, 15-17.
USDA zones: 6-8.
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Flowering period: May to June.
Flowering attributes: Dark pink, almost red buds opening up to pink flowers with white center that slowly fade to white. Flowers on large trusses bearing 15-17 flowers on each truss.
Leaf attributes: Elliptic, medium size, dull green evergreen leaves.
Growth habit: Upright.
Light: Full sun to part shade.
Soil: Humus rich, well-drained, acidic soil.
Pruning Methods: Lightly prune for symmetry after the shrub has finished flowering; rarely needs pruning.
Rainy Side Notes
I bought this plant not only because of its attributes but the name attracted me. I like that I have some defiance in the garden. When the buds show up in bright reddish-pink, the rhododendron begins to stand out. From buds to fading flowers, it is a knockout in the garden. I bought two plants and gave one to my new neighbors. Bless their hearts, they planted it in the corner by the street where we can enjoy the view too! Mine, I hid in the very back to enjoy for myself. If you are looking for a soft subtle rhododendron, this one's not for you. R. 'Point Defiance' is a show pony looking to win awards with every glance its way, and it did! Winner of the American Rhododendron Society’s 2006 Rhododendron of the Year award, this rhododendron is highly recommended for the maritime Pacific Northwest garden.
R. 'Point Defiance' is a cross between R. ‘Anna’ and R. ‘Marius Koster’.
Debra Teachout-Teashon
Photographed in author's garden.
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