Rhododendron schlippenbachii

Rhododendron schlippenbachii

I first learned of this plant on a plant exchange trip I was sent on to Bath, Maine. I brought a schlippenbachii home for Annette's garden as I loved the suttle leaf coloration, texture, and planar architecture of the small shrub. That was 9 years ago. The plant is still alive, but far from thriving. (Note: Annette has a tendency to prune, transplant, and order the health right out of all her plants)

The plant above I found in inventory at Urban Roots Garden Center in May. Certainly a rare find in a garden center. It is reputed as "difficult to establish" according to my friend Deanna. I think this one seems to be doing well after the first 4 months (😜 Dee). We'll see how the winter goes.