“Snow Lady” rhododendron provides a profusion of white flowers in early spring. (Richie Steffen)

“Snow Lady” rhododendron provides a profusion of white flowers in early spring. (Richie Steffen)

Great Plant Pick: Rhododendron ‘Snow Lady,’ dwarf rhododendron

What: Rhododendron “Snow Lady” is a smaller, mounding shrub with masses of pure white flowers in very early spring. The evergreen foliage is dark green with tiny hairs on the upper surface and edges of the leaves. This attractive compact variety is inviting to bees and hummingbirds and resistant to slugs and snails.

Where: Plant in full sun to light or open shade, although avoid sites with hot afternoon sun. “Snow Lady” grows best when provided with rich, well-drained soil.

Size: The dwarf rhododendron grows to be 5 feet tall and 5 feet wide when mature.

Care: Because rhododendrons are shallow-rooted, water regularly during the dry season.

— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Life

Collection of  colorful flowers and ornamental plants in pots against the wooden wall on a corner of town street,Japan
Thrillers, fillers and spillers: Show your style with striking containers

Get into the spirit of summer by breathing new life into your old pots with fresh arrangments of foliage and flowers.

Photo by Gina Shields of GM Photography
Whidbey Island to salute the fallen for Memorial Day

All are invited to honor those who have fallen at three events on Whidbey Island.

2024 Toyota Venza Limited crossover (Photo provided by Toyota)
2024 Toyota Venza Limited crossover

The car is a safe choice that’s still eco-friendly to help ease a guilty conscious.

Pet detective Jim Branson stops to poke through some fur that Raphael the dog found while searching on Saturday, March 2, 2024, in Everett, Washington. Branson determined the fur in question was likely from a rabbit, and not a missing cat.(Ryan Berry / The Herald)
Lost a pet? Pet detective James Branson and his dogs may be able to help

James Branson, founder of Three Retrievers Lost Pet Rescue, helps people in the Seattle area find their missing pets for $350.

Cast-iron sign offers 3 simple steps for safety in case a train’s a comin’

Advising people to stop, look and listen, this old sign is more instructive than newer X-shaped railroad crossing signs.

2024 BMW i5
2024 BMW i5

BMW’s beloved 5 Series has been around for over 50 years. Now… Continue reading

The Solterra is Subaru’s first all-electric compact SUV. (Photo provided by Subaru)
2024 Subaru Solterra is updated with no increase in pricing

Improved charging ability, added EyeSight features and a new steering wheel are among the upgrades.

Anthony Brock performs at Artisans PNW during the first day of the Fisherman’s Village Music Fest on Thursday, May 16, 2024 in Everett, Washington. (Olivia Vanni / The Herald)
At downtown Everett musical festival: ‘Be weird and dance with us’

In its first night, Fisherman’s Village brought together people who “might not normally be in the same room together” — with big acts still to come.

Whidbey Renaissance Faire volunteers pose in their costumes. (Photo by Bree Eaton)
Faire thee well: Renaissance is coming to Whidbey Island

The volunteer-run fair May 25 and 26 will feature dancers, a juggler, ‘Fakespeare,’ various live music shows and lots of food.

From a 17th-century warship to ABBA, Stockholm’s delights span the ages

The city — known for Nobel prizes, “Pippy Longstocking” and a very tall city hall — sits on 14 islands connected by 54 bridges.

On moving day for elderly mom, a moving reminder of what matters in life

Older adults don’t talk much about accomplishments during their working lives. Instead, they talk about the value of family.

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.