Plant of the week

RHODODENDRON IMPEDITUM

RHODODENDRONS cannot be true blue, but this one gets close. Native to Western China, Impeditum grows as a small, dense shrub with tiny evergreen leaves. In late spring, those are almost blotted out by vast numbers of tiny flowers whose petals are a gorgeous blue-purple. Being so compact, this one is perfect for a roomy container. Ericaceous compost is vital.