Description If gloomy days aren’t your thing, Rhododendron Happydendron® 'Pushy Purple' is guaranteed to lift the spirits. This outstanding new shrub was shortlisted for RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year 2019 and it’s easy to see why. Ultra low maintenance, with no need for any special ericaceous compost, this Rhododendron puts on a gorgeous display from late spring, showcasing masses of richly coloured deep red buds that open into spectacular flowers displaying an incredible mix of three colours — pale pink petals edged in darker mauve-purple with a striking yellow centre. As the flowers age, these tones deepen and change, creating weeks of evolving interest through May and June. Naturally bushy and dense in habit, 'Pushy Purple' forms a handsome, mounded shrub with excellent presence in borders, containers, or as light screening. Reaching around 125–150cm in ten years, it is robust, fully winter hardy and refreshingly low-maintenance. What truly sets this variety apart is its special grafted rootstock, which allows it to thrive even in chalky or neutral soils — making it a reliable choice for gardeners who struggle with traditional rhododendrons. Equally happy in the ground or a large pot, this exclusive German-bred introduction is a rare combination of beauty, resilience and ease. Planting Conditions Camellia japonica 'Pink' like moist, well drained, acid soil in a sheltered position out of the wind. They prefer to be in dappled shade to full shade as the intensity of the sun can scorch their leaves. If you are planting a camellia in a container use a mix of ericaceous compost and John Innes No. 3. Watering & Feeding After planting, water Camellia japonica 'Pink’ regularly for the first year until it is well-established, only watering during dry spells thereafter using rainwater whenever possible. Water more frequently in summer during the months July, August, September as this is when the flower buds for the following year form; drought can prevent the buds from forming successfully. When the plant reaches four years old it requires less care and attention; only it is still wise to water in very dry conditions in the Summer period. General Care Camellias are considered hardy plants however the colder conditions of frost and snow can damage their buds and so covering the plant with horticultural fleece is recommended. Camellias require no pruning in the first four years and subsequently little pruning thereafter. However if the plant does get too large for the space time back immediately after flowering in the Spring.
