shrub RHS Award

PJM Elite Star Rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Roblet'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

P.J.M. rhododendrons are a group of exceptionally hardy, small-leaved evergreen hybrids known for their profuse early spring blooms and aromatic foliage that turns a rich mahogany-purple in winter. 'Roblet', sold as PJM Elite Star, is an improved selection with a more compact, dense habit and larger, brighter lavender-pink flowers than the classic PJM. It is a very reliable and heavy bloomer.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

PJM rhododendrons provide multi-season interest, with a spectacular burst of early spring color, handsome summer foliage, and dramatic purple-bronze winter leaves. They are a cornerstone of the spring garden.

Their dense, evergreen nature makes them suitable for foundation plantings, low hedges, or massing on slopes where they can provide year-round structure and texture.

The early blooms are a vital nectar source for emerging bees and other pollinators when few other flowers are available. The dense branching provides cover for small birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Amend soil heavily with compost and peat moss for acidity.
Dig a shallow, wide hole, no deeper than the root ball.
Set the plant so the root flare is slightly above grade.
Backfill with the amended soil mixture.
Water well and apply a layer of acidic mulch.

Pro Tip

Plant high, with the top of the root ball slightly above the surrounding soil level, to ensure excellent drainage and prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially in summer and fall.
Mulch annually with pine straw or shredded bark.
Deadhead spent flowers to promote foliage growth.
Test soil pH and keep it between 4.5 and 6.0.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy clay or wet soil.
Avoid deep cultivation around the shallow roots.
Don't fertilize late in the season, as it can spur tender new growth.
Never use aluminum sulfate to acidify the soil; it can be toxic.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant foundation plantingMassed border for early spring colorWoodland garden accent

Companion Plants

Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans' Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' Dryopteris erythrosora Pieris japonica Heuchera 'Palace Purple'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

PJM Elite Star Rhododendron questions

What zones can PJM Elite Star Rhododendron grow in?

PJM Elite Star Rhododendron is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is PJM Elite Star Rhododendron deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse PJM Elite Star Rhododendron, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does PJM Elite Star Rhododendron bloom?

PJM Elite Star Rhododendron typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does PJM Elite Star Rhododendron need full sun?

PJM Elite Star Rhododendron does best in part shade.