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Dwarf Rhododendron

Purple Gem Rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Purple Gem'

Purple Gem forms a neat mound of small blue-green leaves that pick up bronze tones in winter, then covers itself in purple-violet blooms in early spring. Perfect under low windows and in small beds.

USDA Zones5-8
LightPart shade to sun
Heightabout 2 ft
Widthabout 3 ft
BloomPurple-violet, early to mid spring
FoliageBlue-green, bronzing in winter · Evergreen

Key features

  • Hardy dwarf rhododendron
  • Purple-violet spring flowers
  • Blue-green foliage bronzes in winter
  • Compact mound

Great for

Rock gardenFoundationBorderContainer

Plant guides

Look for the white Gartenmeister® pot
Find Purple Gem Rhododendron in the garden center at Lowe's, The Home Depot and independent nurseries.
Where to BuyRetailer availability

Purple Gem Rhododendron questions

How big does Purple Gem Rhododendron get?

Purple Gem Rhododendron grows about 2 ft tall and about 3 ft wide at maturity.

What zone is Purple Gem Rhododendron hardy in?

Purple Gem Rhododendron is hardy in USDA zones 5-8. Light: part shade to sun.

When does Purple Gem Rhododendron bloom?

Bloom: Purple-violet, early to mid spring.

When should I prune Purple Gem Rhododendron?

Rhododendrons need little pruning. Shape them right after flowering, and snap off spent flower clusters to keep the plant tidy. Next year's buds form in summer, so avoid pruning after midsummer.

Why isn't my Purple Gem Rhododendron blooming?

Common causes are pruning after midsummer, too much shade, a young plant, or dry soil in late summer when flower buds form. Keep it mulched and watered, and give it a few hours of sun.

Where can I buy Purple Gem Rhododendron?

Look for Purple Gem Rhododendron in the white Gartenmeister® pot at Lowe's, The Home Depot and independent garden centers. Selection varies by region and season. Can't find it? Ask us where to buy.