Rhododendron  'Yaku Prince'
shrub RHS Award

Yaku Prince Rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Yaku Prince'

$43.99
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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:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesA superb, four-season evergreen shrub with a perfect mounding habit, attractive leathery foliage, and a spectacular spring display of multi-toned pink-to-white flower trusses.
Practical UsesIts compact size and dense form make it an ideal choice for small spaces, foundation plantings, and rock gardens where a low-maintenance, high-impact plant is desired.
Ecological BenefitsThe flowers provide a rich source of nectar for bees and hummingbirds in the spring.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$43.99

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a site protected from harsh afternoon sun and winter winds.
  2. Ensure soil is acidic, rich in organic matter, and well-drained.
  3. Dig a shallow, wide hole.
  4. Plant with the top of the root ball 1-2 inches above the soil line.
  5. Backfill with heavily amended soil.
  6. 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

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Perfect specimen for a small garden or rock gardenLow foundation plantingForeground of a mixed shrub border

Companion Plants

Pieris japonica Enkianthus campanulatus Hosta Heuchera Acer palmatum

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.

Keep exploring

Grow Yaku Prince Rhododendron with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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