Rhododendron ‘Marcel Menard’

Description

Rhododendron 'Marcel Menard' is a shrub of the species Rhododendron catawbiense, which belongs to the heather family (Ericaceae). Produced in the Zymon Ornamental Shrubs Nursery, Catawba Rhododendrons are hybrids of the previously mentioned species with other varieties of rhododendrons. Botanically, the Catawba Rhododendron originates from North America and is a frost-resistant species with a fairly slow growth rate.
In contrast to closely related azaleas, also belonging to the heather family, rhododendrons do not lose their leaves in winter. Instead, when high frosts occur, the leathery leaves curl into tubes.
When deciding to cultivate rhododendrons in your garden, it is important to ensure several key conditions, which will allow you to enjoy the beauty of these decorative plants for years:

• the rhododendron requires a semi-shaded and sheltered position, protected from the wind. It thrives well in the shade of larger trees.
• The soil prepared for the rhododendron should be acidic, rich in organic matter, well-draining, and moderately moist.
• rhododendrons thrive best along the edges of small ponds, water features, or other bodies of water, where there is a moist microclimate.
• rhododendrons definitely thrive better when planted in groups.

Rhododendrons dislike being transplanted, so it is important to properly prepare and choose a location for your desired plant. If you have any doubts regarding the selection or requirements of the plant, we invite you to contact us, and we will provide professional advice in choosing the plants.

Rhododendron 'Marcel Menard' is a bushy shrub with a spreading habit. The flowers are large, dark purple with a distinct green-brown blotch on the upper petal, gathered in impressive and large terminal inflorescences. Rhododendron 'Marcel Menard' blooms profusely in mid-May.
It is recommended to cover young plants for winter.
This variety received the RHS Award of Garden Merit in 2013.