Dwarf Rhododendron fastigiatum 'Blue Steel' AGM

Code: SFASTBS
Flower Colour: Mauve-Blue
Flowering Month: April
Height After 10 Years: 25-50cm
Interesting Foliage: Yes
Scent: Not Scented
Hardiness: To -20 °C

Striking deep lavender blue flowers which smother the plant in April. R.fastigiatum Blue Steel is a tough plant with wonderful silvery blue young growth all summer. The foliage is particularly attractive, having pale green scales on the upper surface. Height and spread 30cm in 10 years.

Dwarf Rhododendrons don’t mind the sun but they hate too much heat, so do avoid reflected heat from South facing walls and patios. This plant is a selection of fastigiatum, a species (or wild) Rhododendron. We think this is the best selection and preferable to R.impeditum which is similar, but without the lovely foliage.

Recommended for fabulous blue flowers, ideal for rock gardens and front of borders.
Easy to grow.
Ideal position: most garden situations but avoid too much heat.
Habit: compact and dense.
Group: Dwarf Rhododendron.
Subsection: Lapponica.
Introduction date: pre 1950 (before 1906).
Species distribution: calostrotum distribution - Yunnan.
Approximate altitude: 3,200-4,400m
Ideal soil: pH 4.5 to 6.
RHS Hardiness Rating: H4.
How we usually propagate this plant: Cutting.
Awards: RHS Award of Garden Merit.