Nova Zembla Rhododendron

Bold Red Blooms
Evergreen Structure
Partial Shade Color

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#2 Container

$42.00

15 in stock

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$42.00

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Our local delivery area reaches as far north as Schroon Lake, south to Voorheesville, Glenmont, and East Greenbush areas, parts of Fulton and Montgomery counties, much of Washington County, and all areas in between. If you have questions on local delivery, give us a call at

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Nova Zembla Rhododendron

Sunlight
Can grow in a range from full sun to partial shade. They need at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight per day.
Watering
Regular watering schedule for the first six months. Once established, rainwater should be sufficient.
Fertilizin
Should not need any extra fertilizer unless your entire lawn and garden have problems and needs regular fertilizing.

Nova Zembla Rhododendron

Nova Zembla Rhododendron is a bold broadleaf evergreen shrub known for vivid red spring blooms, leathery green foliage, and dependable landscape structure. Its upright, rounded habit makes it a standout choice for partial-shade foundation plantings, woodland borders, screens, and colorful evergreen groupings.

Why choose Nova Zembla Rhododendron?

Choose Nova Zembla Rhododendron for its rich red flower trusses, strong evergreen presence, and classic rhododendron form. This cultivar brings dramatic late-spring color to shaded landscapes while maintaining handsome foliage through the rest of the year. It works beautifully as a specimen, informal hedge, backdrop shrub, or layered planting with other acid-loving evergreens and shade perennials. Its substantial size and dense growth make it especially useful where gardeners want seasonal impact plus year-round garden structure.

Key Characteristics

Botanical Name: Rhododendron x ‘Nova Zembla’
Common Name: Nova Zembla Rhododendron
Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen shrub
Growth Habit: Upright, dense, rounded to spreading shrub

Nova Zembla Rhododendron Additional Information

Nova Zembla Rhododendron produces showy clusters of deep red to bright crimson flowers in late spring, often with darker markings that add depth to each bloom. The flowers rise above thick, leathery, dark green foliage, creating a striking contrast that is especially effective near entries, patios, shaded walkways, and woodland garden edges. As a broadleaf evergreen, it keeps its foliage through winter, adding texture and mass when many flowering shrubs are dormant.

This rhododendron is best used in protected spots with acidic, well-drained soil and consistent moisture. It pairs well with azaleas, mountain laurel, ferns, hostas, and other woodland-style plantings. Because flower buds form on older growth, pruning should be limited and done shortly after blooming. A yearly mulch layer helps protect the shallow root system, conserve soil moisture, and support steady performance through seasonal temperature changes.

Planting & Care

1. Planting: Plant in partial shade with rich, acidic, well-drained soil. Set the root ball level with or slightly above the surrounding grade, then backfill with loosened native soil amended with compost or pine bark where helpful.

2. Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, especially in warm or dry weather. Once established, water deeply during extended dry periods so the shallow roots remain supported without sitting in saturated soil.

3. Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of pine bark, shredded leaves, or pine needles over the root zone. Keep mulch pulled back from the stems to protect the crown and maintain good airflow.

4. Pruning: Prune lightly right after flowering if shaping is needed. Remove stray branches or spent flower clusters carefully, and avoid heavy late-season pruning to preserve next spring’s flower buds.

Related Resources

FAQs

How big does Nova Zembla Rhododendron get?
Nova Zembla Rhododendron commonly matures around 5–8 feet tall and wide in favorable conditions, forming a dense, rounded evergreen shrub for borders, screens, and foundation plantings.
How much sun does Nova Zembla Rhododendron need?
It grows best in partial shade, especially morning sun or filtered light. A sheltered location with protection from strong afternoon sun helps maintain attractive foliage and strong flowering.
When does Nova Zembla Rhododendron bloom?
Nova Zembla Rhododendron typically blooms in late spring, producing large rounded clusters of red flowers above glossy evergreen foliage.

Shipping Details

Estimated Shipping Time: Most orders ship immediately. As noted on the website, some items are seasonal, and may only ship in spring or fall. Once your order is shipped, you’ll receive an email with a tracking number.

Amount of Order	Shipping Charge
Local Delivery	FREE SHIPPING
Non-Local Delivery	Varies based on UPS shipping

Lush Foliage
Partial Shade
Flowering

Mature Height	Large: Up to 6 ft
Mature Spread	0-5 ft
Growth Rate	Moderate
Botanical Name	Rhododendron 'Nova Zembla'
Bloom Time	Late Spring, Mid spring
Deer Resistant	No
Family	Ericaceae
Flower Color	Red
Hardiness Zones	4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Light Needs	Full Sun
Maintenance	Medium
Size	#2 Container, #3 Container

Map of the United States with all states outlined and filled in dark greenli

Growing Zones 4-8 Outdoors

(Hardy down to -30)

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