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AWARD WINNING

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photo of Dr. Tom Ranney

Meet the Breeder

Dr. Tom Ranney
North Carolina, USA

AWARD WINNING

BLACK HAT®

Rhododendron

Rhododendron x

'NCRX2'

PP#31,898; CBRAF

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Close up of a purple Black Hat rhododendron bloom "} Close up of the dark foliage and light buds of Black Hat rhododendron The purple blooms of Black Hat rhododendron
  • Dramatic foliage
  • Long bloom period
  • Early blooming
Description

Fabulous foliage.

Developed by Dr. Tom Ranney at NCSU, Black Hat® rhododendron is a small-leaved, compact 'PJM' type. What sets it apart, however, is that it is a triploid selection, making the rose-purple early spring flowers far longer lasting than conventional selections. Thick, dark, evergreen foliage takes on dramatic purple-black tones in cool weather. Grow it and see the difference!

Awards
2022 Rhododendron of the Year, Regional Award, American Rhododendron Society
USDA Zone
4 - 8 (-30°F/-34°C)
Exposure
Full sun, Part sun
Height
3'
Width
3'
Finish Time
1 season
Type
Evergreen
Bloom Time
Spring
Flower Color
Purple
Foliage Color
Black, Purple, Green
Liner Sizes
2 1/4", 4", Quick Turn

Soil

Cool, acidic soils with abundant organic matter and good drainage are required.

Pruning

Very slow growth rate requires little to no pruning. If desired, do so after flowering.

Uses

Woodland gardens; specimen; foundation plantings; mixed borders.

Growing Tips

Very early and reliable bloomer, even in cold climates.

  • Benchcard: Black Hat® Rhododendron bench card
  • Tag: Black Hat® Rhododendron Tag
  • Grower Sheet: Black Hat® Rhododendron Grower Sheet
  • Spec Sheet: Black Hat® Rhododendron Spec Sheet

    • Features: Compact, Attracts pollinators, Evergreen, Winter interest

    Filters: Botanical genus: Rhododendron, Common name: Rhododendron, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, USDA Zone 8, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Spring, Purple flowers, Black foliage, Purple foliage, Green foliage

    Features: Compact, Attracts pollinators, Evergreen, Winter interest

    Filters: Botanical genus: Rhododendron, Common name: Rhododendron, Retail program: Proven Winners® ColorChoice®, USDA Zone 4, USDA Zone 5, USDA Zone 6, USDA Zone 7, USDA Zone 8, Exposure: Full sun, Exposure: Part sun, Bloom time: Spring, Purple flowers, Black foliage, Purple foliage, Green foliage