Rhododendron Mardi Gras #3

If you are tired of looking at bare dirt and mulch under your big shade trees, you may need a Rhododendron.

Here at Mitchell's, this is the shrub I point people toward when they come in, scratching their heads about what to plant on the shady side of their house. Most colorful plants demand full sun, but the "Rhodo" prefers to keep cool. It’s the perfect solution for adding color to those tricky, darker spots in the yard where your grass is hard to grow.

In the King and Winston-Salem area, the trick to a happy Rhododendron is drainage. Our heavy clay can be tough on them, so we recommend planting them slightly raised and amending the soil with plenty of organic matter. Treat them right, and they come back strong every year.

Why we recommend them for NC Piedmont Triad yards:

• The "Wow" Factor: These aren't tiny little petals. Rhododendrons produce massive "trusses"—huge clusters of bell-shaped flowers that look like a bridal bouquet growing right on the branch.

• Year-Round Green: Most flowering shrubs look like sticks in the winter. Not this one. The large, leathery leaves stay deep green all year long, giving your landscape structure even in January.

• Made for the Shade: This is one of the few plants that thrives in dappled light or morning sun/afternoon shade. It can turn a dark spot into a bright focal point.

Best Used For: Woodland gardens, foundation plantings on the north or east side of the house, and tall privacy screens in shady areas.

Planting Notes: Rhododendrons love acidic soil and consistent moisture but hate "wet feet." Sizes vary by variety—some stay compact (3–4 feet), while others can grow into massive 10-foot walls of green. For a deep dive into how to manage acidic soil for these beauties, check out the NC State Extension Plant Toolbox or just ask one of us when you stop by the nursery.