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Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
  • Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
  • Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
  • Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
  • Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
Boursault Catawba Rhododendron

Boursault Catawba Rhododendron

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Boursault Catawba Rhododendron Information

Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
About The Boursault Catawba Rhododendron

Enjoy Lovely Lavender Blooms with the Boursault Catawba Rhododendron

Boursault Catawba Rhododendron is the kind of shrub that makes a lasting impression. With its lush evergreen foliage and stunning lavender-purple blooms, this classic rhododendron delivers a show-stopping display each spring. Whether you're looking to create a natural privacy screen, add a bold accent to your landscape, or attract pollinators, ‘Boursault’ is a reliable, low-maintenance choice.

Why You'll Love It:

  • Showy Spring Blooms: Large, trumpet-shaped flowers appear in clusters, drawing in bees and butterflies.
  • Evergreen Appeal: Deep green, leathery leaves provide structure and color all year long.
  • Cold Hardy & Tough: Thrives in cooler climates (zones 4-8) and stands up to harsh winters.
  • Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires little care beyond occasional pruning and acidic soil.
  • Great for Privacy: Perfect for hedges, borders, or as a standalone statement plant.

Growing Tips:

Plant in partial shade to full sun, in moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Keep roots cool with mulch and water regularly, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape.

Add ‘Boursault’ to your garden and enjoy a burst of color every spring—without the hassle of high maintenance!

Boursault Catawba Rhododendron Details
Mature Height:
6-10 ft.
Mature Width:
6-10 ft.
Sunlight:
Full-Part Sun
Growth Rate:
Moderate
Botanical Name:
Rhododendron catawbiense 'Boursault'
Grows Well In Zones:
4-8 outdoors
Does Not Ship To:
AK, AZ, HI, OR

Growing Zones 4-8 Outdoors

(Hardy down to -20° F)

Watering Requirements
Newly planted shrubs need watering 2-3 times a week to establish their shallow root systems. Established shrubs in the ground need a deep soak once a week during dry spells. Potted rhododendrons dry out much faster and often require daily watering during peak summer heat.
Sunlight Requirements
Thrives in partial shade, preferably morning sun and afternoon shade. They can tolerate full sun in northern climates, but they should be protected from afternoon sun in southern climates.
Humidity Requirements
Rhododendrons thrive in moderate to high humidity, making them perfect for coastal or naturally humid regions. In hot, arid climates, protect them with extra afternoon shade and a thick layer of organic mulch to preserve soil moisture and cool the surrounding air.
Pet-Friendly Plant?
No, this plant is not recommended in homes with pets.
Read our full care guide
Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
Frequently Asked Questions
What soil pH do rhododendrons need?
Rhododendrons need acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5) to absorb vital nutrients like iron and manganese. In neutral or alkaline soil (pH 6.0+), iron gets chemically trapped, causing iron chlorosis where new leaves turn yellow while the veins stay green.
What soil pH do rhododendrons need?
Rhododendrons need acidic soil (pH 4.5–5.5) to absorb vital nutrients like iron and manganese. In neutral or alkaline soil (pH 6.0+), iron gets chemically trapped, causing iron chlorosis where new leaves turn yellow while the veins stay green.
How do I raise or lower the soil pH for rhododendrons?
To lower soil pH for rhododendrons, mix in sphagnum peat moss or apply elemental sulfur and acidifying fertilizers in spring. Maintain these acidic levels over time by topping the root zone with a 2–3 inch layer of pine bark or needle mulch. If pH drops dangerously low (below 4.0), apply small amounts of garden lime or wood ash to gently raise it. Always test your soil before adding lime to avoid over-correcting above pH 6.0, which triggers leaf yellowing.
How do I raise or lower the soil pH for rhododendrons?
To lower soil pH for rhododendrons, mix in sphagnum peat moss or apply elemental sulfur and acidifying fertilizers in spring. Maintain these acidic levels over time by topping the root zone with a 2–3 inch layer of pine bark or needle mulch. If pH drops dangerously low (below 4.0), apply small amounts of garden lime or wood ash to gently raise it. Always test your soil before adding lime to avoid over-correcting above pH 6.0, which triggers leaf yellowing.
How and when should I prune rhododendrons?
Prune rhododendrons in late spring immediately after flowering. Start by deadheading, snapping off spent bloom clusters just above new leaf buds to redirect energy away from seed growth. For general upkeep, trim dead or leggy branches back to a leaf node, or perform rejuvenation pruning on overgrown shrubs by cutting up to one-third of main stems down to 12 inches in early spring.
How and when should I prune rhododendrons?
Prune rhododendrons in late spring immediately after flowering. Start by deadheading, snapping off spent bloom clusters just above new leaf buds to redirect energy away from seed growth. For general upkeep, trim dead or leggy branches back to a leaf node, or perform rejuvenation pruning on overgrown shrubs by cutting up to one-third of main stems down to 12 inches in early spring.
All of our plants ship in premium packaging for zero damage on arrival. Here’s what you can expect in your box on arrival:
Your Boursault Catawba Rhododendron
Fully rooted in a nursery pot with soil intact
Custom Protection System
Corner guards, soil stabilizer, and branch sleeves keep it secure
Pre-Watered & Ready
Each plant is watered 24 hours before it is shipped
Care Instructions Card
Survival guide for your first 30 days of growing is included

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Why Choose The Sill?

Not all Boursault Catawba Rhododendrons are created equal
Traditional Retailers
Greenhouse Grown Not warehouse-held.Acclimated before shipping.
Indoor Ready Pre-conditioned to lower light conditions.
Fully Potted Soil intact. No repotting stress.
Damage Guarantee Free replacement within 48 hours.