
Yaku Prince Rhododendron
Rhododendron 'Yaku Prince'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
48 inches
Width
48 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate
Lifespan
Long-lived shrub
Native To
Hybrid; parent species from Japan
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Rhododendron yakushimanum and its hybrids are prized for their compact, mounding habit, weather-resistant leathery leaves, and beautiful domed flower trusses. New foliage is often covered in a silvery-white or tan fuzz (indumentum). 'Yaku Prince' is a classic 'yak' hybrid, known for its dense, low-mounding form and stunning flower display. Buds are deep red, opening to apple-blossom pink flowers that fade to near-white, creating a multi-toned effect.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site protected from harsh afternoon sun and winter winds.
- Ensure soil is acidic, rich in organic matter, and well-drained.
- Dig a shallow, wide hole.
- Plant with the top of the root ball 1-2 inches above the soil line.
- Backfill with heavily amended soil.
- Mulch with pine needles or shredded bark and water well.
Pro Tip
Do not cultivate around the base of rhododendrons as their roots are very shallow and easily damaged. Rely on mulch to suppress weeds.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Maintain a 2-3 inch layer of acidic mulch.
- Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry periods.
- Deadhead spent flower trusses to promote foliage growth.
- Site where it gets protection from winter sun and wind.
Don't
- Don't plant too deeply.
- Don't let the root ball dry out.
- Don't use lime or fresh manure near the plant.
- Don't fertilize late in the season.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Yaku Prince Rhododendron questions
What zones can Yaku Prince Rhododendron grow in?
Yaku Prince Rhododendron is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Yaku Prince Rhododendron deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Yaku Prince Rhododendron, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Yaku Prince Rhododendron bloom?
Yaku Prince Rhododendron typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Yaku Prince Rhododendron need full sun?
Yaku Prince Rhododendron does best in part shade.
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