Rhododendron 'P.J.M. Elite Star'

Scott's Nursery Ltd.

$44.99
Title

Take your spring display to the next level with 'PJM Elite Star', a supercharged version of the beloved garden classic. This standout evergreen is celebrated for being one of the most floriferous rhododendrons available, practically disappearing under a dense blanket of vibrant, electric lavender-purple blooms in early spring. Its small, aromatic leaves are a glossy, deep green all summer, providing a refined and tidy appearance. As the temperature drops, the foliage performs a dramatic encore, turning a shimmering mahogany-bronze that adds rich, dark colour to your winter garden.

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Plant Details

Mature Size:

4 ft H x 4 ft W

Zone:

4-8

Watering:

Medium

Foliage Type:

Broadleaf Evergreen

Growth Rate:

Slow - Moderate

Light:

Full Sun/Partial Shade

Plant Profile

Common Names:

PJM Elite Star Rhododendron

Scientific Name:

Rhododendron 'PJM Elite Star'

Type:

Ornamental Evergreen Shrub

Growth Details:

  • Mature Size: Typically reaches 4 feet tall and wide.
  • Growth Habit / Form: Very dense, mounded, and upright.
  • Growth Rate: Slow to moderate.
  • Longevity: Can live for 40+ years in ideal conditions.

Environmental Needs:

  • Exposure: Full sun to partial shade.
  • Soil Preferences: Strictly requires well-drained, highly acidic soil rich in organic matter (pH 4.5–5.5).
  • Soil Tolerance: Subject to chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in alkaline or lime-heavy soils.
  • Watering: Water deeply once or twice a week during dry periods; use mulch to keep the shallow root system cool.

Special Features:

  • Enhanced Bloom: Selected specifically for its superior flower count compared to the standard PJM Elite.
  • Disease Resistances: Highly resistant to powdery mildew and typical root rot if drainage is good.
  • Attracts: A vital early-season food source for bees and early-emerging butterflies.
Care Guide

Ornamental & Landscape Value

Seasonal Interest:

  • Bloom Information: Exceptional "star-like" abundance of lavender-purple flowers in early to mid-spring (April).
  • Fall/Winter Colour: Glossy green foliage transforms into a dramatic mahogany or burgundy-bronze.
  • Evergreen Interest: Maintains its colourful, leathery leaves all winter.

Garden Value:

A premier choice for early spring colour in borders, foundation plantings, and massed groupings. Its compact, tidy nature makes it excellent for urban gardens and large patio containers.

Wildlife & Human Value:

  • Wildlife Value: Provides essential early nectar and year-round shelter for small birds.
  • Human Value: Provides reliable, high-impact structure and color for high-visibility landscape areas. Note: Toxic if ingested.

Planting & Care Guide

Planting Considerations:

  • Best Time To Plant: Spring or early fall.
  • Spacing: 3–4 feet apart for a dense hedge or mass planting.
  • Location Tips: Avoid low-lying areas where frost settles to protect the early-season flower buds.

Care:

  • Light Requirements: Versatile; thrives in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the most compact habit and profuse blooming.
  • Moisture Requirements: Requires consistent, even moisture. It does not tolerate drought or soggy "wet feet."
  • Maintenance: Low maintenance. No deadheading is required as it is self-cleaning, but you can prune lightly after flowering to shape.
  • Fertilization: Use a slow-release, acid-loving (ericaceous) fertilizer in early spring before the flower buds open.

Tolerances:

Extremely cold-hardy and notably sun-tolerant for a rhododendron.

Tips For Success:

  • Mulching: Apply a 2-inch layer of pine bark or composted needles to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity.
  • Site Selection: Protect from harsh, drying winter winds to prevent foliage "burn" or desiccation.