Rhododendron

This wonderful bold-flowered rhododendron is great for adding some early colour to the spring garden. The flowers are bright pink with spots in the centre, the perfect complement to the large, oval mid-green leaves. This is an upright growing plant with a loose habit, that looks good planted alongside other spring-flowering shrubs. Unlike many other rhododendrons, it enjoys full sun as well as partial shade. Don't worry if your garden doesn't have the acidic soil that it needs to thrive, as it can be grown in a pot, using ericaceous compost, while young.