Rhododendron Besse Howells
Best low-maintenance evergreen for gardeners seeking vibrant, year-round landscape color.
Enhance your garden with the Rhododendron 'Besse Howells', a stunning evergreen shrub from Cornell Farm. This plant boasts vibrant red blooms that provide a striking visual focal point and year-round interest with its lush foliage. Offered in a convenient 12-15 inch size, it's ready for immediate planting, making it a low-maintenance addition to any landscape. Cornell Farm ensures quality and offers local delivery within the Portland Metro area, bringing this beautiful rhododendron directly to your doorstep.
$56.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
34
/ 2598
#34 in Bushes & Shrubs
Price vs Category Average
+45%
Above average
Plant Size
1215
/ - inches
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a high-impact focal point for spring
- Homeowners needing year-round privacy and evergreen structure
- Cold-climate residents wanting reliable, hardy flowering shrubs
Who should skip it
- Gardeners with alkaline or heavy clay soil conditions
- Beginners unable to monitor site drainage and moisture levels
- Urban gardeners with limited space for large shrubs
Performance breakdown
Visual Impact
Vibrant red blooms create an immediate, high-contrast focal point for gardens.
Year-Round Appeal
Evergreen foliage maintains structural interest long after the flowering season ends.
Maintenance Effort
A reliable, low-fuss shrub perfect for busy or novice gardeners.
Establishment Speed
The 12-15 inch size allows for quick integration into existing landscapes.
Container Versatility
Compact growth habit makes it an ideal candidate for patio containers.
Sourcing Reliability
Cornell Farm provides expert cultivation and convenient local delivery options.
Key Specs
Plant Size
12-15 inches
Bloom Color
Red
Foliage Type
Evergreen
Botanical Name
Rhododendron
Quantity per Pack
1
Soil Type Preference
Acidic
Container Friendly
True
Features
- Vibrant red blooms for striking visual appeal
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round interest
- Low-maintenance gardening solution
- Ready-to-plant size for immediate impact
- Local delivery available in Portland Metro
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the exceptional quality of the Rhododendron Besse Howells upon arrival. Reviewers report the plants are robust, well rooted, and notably larger than anticipated, emphasizing superior product health. A major positive is the plant's reliability to thrive after planting, often noted for its vibrant color and strong growth structure. This high quality strongly supports the value, establishing it as a trusted selection for gardeners seeking dependable, mature specimens.
Know before you buy
This rhododendron thrives in acidic, well-draining soil. If your garden soil is naturally alkaline, you may need to amend it with organic matter or peat moss to ensure the plant remains healthy.
Yes, this variety is container-friendly. Ensure you use a pot with adequate drainage holes and a high-quality, acidic potting mix specifically formulated for acid-loving shrubs.
Rhododendrons generally perform best in partial shade. They appreciate morning sun but should be protected from the intense heat of the afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Yes, 'Besse Howells' is an evergreen shrub. It will retain its lush, green leaves throughout the winter, providing structure and color to your landscape even when it is not in bloom.
Rhododendrons are generally slow to moderate growers. While the 12-15 inch size provides an immediate impact, it will take several years of consistent care for the shrub to reach its mature height and spread.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.