Black Hat Rhododendron (Rhododendron x ‘NCRX2’)

Watch the magic unfold right in front of your eyes each spring as this stunning plant emerges from its winter sleep! The rich, dark, dramatic evergreen foliage will be topped off with bright pink buds that will open to gorgeous lavender-pink blooms every spring! Black Hat® Rhododendron (Rhododendron x ‘Black Hat’ PP31,898) has an early bloom set that lasts longer than most Rhododendrons.

This compact shrub stands 3 feet tall and wide and makes such a bold statement in your garden! The cooler the weather the darker the leaves. Black Hat® features small leaves with a well-branched, dense habit which results in more flowers. Plant one for your Hummingbirds and pollinators who will add that extra, all-season ‘wow’ in your garden!

These broad-leaf evergreen flowering shrubs are space-saving ornamentals that are perfect for shadier gardens and sun. A Proven Winners® ColorChoice® selection, so you know Black Hat® will perform fantastically in your garden!

Planting and Application:

Place Black Hat® in your border as a solid hedge or part of a mixed-shrub border. Ideally sized to work in porch and patio planters and even balconies! A perfect foundation planting, edging hedge, ornamental curb appeal, and woodland and wilderness borders! The color is fantastic when used en masse. Use it as a year-round hedge along your front walkway.

They are magical wherever you plant them! Black Hat® will make a beautiful specimen or a stunning statement when planted in a mass in the landscape. Since they are tolerant of shade, they make a perfect plant to place by your foundation. Such an easy plant to maintain. They attract pollinators so be sure to watch the show! Entryways bordered by these will be astounding each spring and are sure to create an incredible first impression.

• Gorgeous Lavender-Pink Flowers
• Broadleaved Evergreen with Purplish-Green Foliage
• Blooms Early to Mid Spring
• Pollinator & Hummingbird-Friendly
• Foundation Planting, Containers, Accents, Edging & Specimens

Tips For Care

Rhododendrons love partial shade in the hotter USDA growing zones 4 to 8 but full sun in all zones. They love acidic, well-drained soil and appreciate regular moisture and mulch to protect their shallow root systems. Black Hat® will bloom on last year’s growth so only prune right after the flowers fade. As soon as your Rhododendrons are done blooming, grab your shears and only prune them to your desired size and shape so as not to disturb next year’s blooms.

• Full Sun, Partial Shade & Afternoon Shade
• Moist to Moderate Moisture Needs
• Enriched Acidic Well-Drained Soil
• Prune Right After Flowering
• Easy to Care For!