Every spring, gardeners glory in the Maddenii group of rhododendrons. Native to the lower slopes of the Himalayas, many of these subtropical rhododendrons feature elegant madrone-like bark, lush foliage, and clusters of waxy, exotically-perfumed, Easter lily-like blossoms. And every spring many gardeners are deeply disappointed to discover that these horticultural wonders (shipped to BHN the previous October) were snapped up by the savvy months before the spring bloom shopping frenzy. In an effort to forestall further floral frustration, while there are still plenty in stock, here’s the scoop on some particularly wonderful Maddeniis. Ye who hesitate can plant junipers.

ELSE FRYE

One of the most fragrant. The flowers are white with a chrome yellow throat, faintly striped pink. A rather leggy grower by nature (let it trail over a wall or cascade down a slope), frequent pinching can produce a sturdy, upright plant about 5' high and as wide. Full sun OK in coastal areas if properly watered. March bloom.

FORSTERIANUM

Clusters of large frilled white flowers with chartreuse throats and a clean, pleasant fragrance in late February/March. One of the best for landscape purposes. Coppery, peeling bark. Will grow in full sun near the coast. Very floriferous with a sturdy, compact, upright growth habit Beautiful in containers.

FRAGRANTISSIMUM

First introduced over 100 years ago, 'Fragrantissimum' is still the standard to which other fragrant rhododendrons are compared. This is one of the most fragrant shrubs existent. Best grown as an espalier. Individual flowers are up to 4" wide, four to a cluster, satiny white with a carmine blush. Lushly scented of honeysuckle and nutmeg. Best with morning sun and afternoon shade. April/May bloom.

FRAGRANTISSIMUM IMPROVED

Somewhat of a misnomer, as this is a seedling selection that shares one common parent with 'Fragrantissimum'. The white flowers are of heavy substance with a beautiful satiny sheen, pink in bud with a soft yellow throat and an almost tropical fragrance with nuances of jasmine and cloves. Grows as a compact, rather dense shrub of medium size. Often in bloom for Easter.

MCNABII

Grows as a 3'-4' mound of deep green leaves covered with fine silver hairs. The flowers are white with pink stripes, sweetly scented with hints of nutmeg. The fragrance carries - one plant can perfume a corner of the garden. April bloom.

MI AMOR

Perhaps the most spectacular of the Maddenii group. Huge white waxy trumpets up to 6" across with yellow throats, six to a truss, appear in late April/early May. Large, tropical looking leaves on plants 6' or more tall. Beautiful peeling red bark. Unusual fragrance - sweet, with hints of musk and tarragon.

SCOTT'S VALENTINE

A low, compact grower with nice red new growth. The deep pink buds open clear pink. Very fragrant, reminiscent of jasmine. Bright filtered shade is best, but direct sun is OK near the coast.