R. 'Gerdeman's Gem' Web Specials

R. 'Gerdeman's Gem' Web SpecialsThis exceptional R. maddenii hybrid was created by the late Jim Gerdeman of Yachats, Oregon. The seed parent is a prize winning form of Rhododendron burmanicum, grown by the Thompson Nursery in Waldport, Oregon. This fine form of the species was crossed with the large flower and fragrant 'Mi Amor'. I believe Jim's hopes were to bring in the larger flower genetics, along with the fragrance, which he accomplished! The plant habit is much more compact

and a parent to many of those  with rich yellow colored flowers

A great specimen tree for any yard

this lime-green cultivar won't scorch in full sun

spreading winter blooming heath

Red cones form on the new growth in the spring

but when it is in flower

very lovely in any garden

this plant will begin to show color by early December

The tree grows vertical with all branches hanging strictly down

but are from the Satsuki group

'Fantastica' is certainly fantastic with the low shrub smothering itself with the attractive picotee flowers in May

and also patented (unusual for rhododendrons)