Nova Zembla Rhododendron has a reputation for hardiness and grows well even in cold climates.

It does best with full to partial sunlight and needs rich, moist soil that has plenty of drainage.

Plant this shrub in a location that receives partial shade or full sun.

Rhododendron Nova Zembla

Jean-Pol GRANDMONT / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 3.0

It does best withacidic soil.

Water

Nova Zembla rhododendron should be watered regularly to ensure that the roots stay moist.

Water deeply once per week or as needed but be careful not to oversaturate the soil.

A layer of mulch can help the soil to retain moisture in between waterings.

Temperature and Humidity

This rhododendron cultivar is notable for its ability to withstand cold conditions.

It can survive temperatures well below freezing; its suitable for growing inUSDA hardiness zones4 to 8.

Fertilizer

If the soil is nutrient-rich, nova zembla rhododendron may not need any additional fertilizer.

Bloom Months

Nova zembla rhododendron blooms in the spring.

May and June are the most active bloom months, depending on climate and planting location.

What Do Nova Zembla Rhododendron Flowers Look and Smell Like?

The flowers of this shrub are a bright red color, with a trumpet-like shape.

The throat of the flower has spotty deep maroon shading.

It has a very light, sweet smell thatattracts pollinators, like hummingbirds and bees.

The soil may be too alkaline;test the soil pHand amend as necessary to improve acidity.

Overwatering may also cause the leaves to yellow as root rot sets in.

In addition, rhododendrons have a shallow root system.

If you plant the shrub too deeply, it can also start to cause yellow leaves.

A partial shade location is preferred.

Guide to Poisonous Plants.

Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

Fertilizing Rhododendrons and Azaleas.