The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Yaku Princess rhododendron

Family: Ericaceae (heath family)

Distribution: hybrid: Shammarello hybrid

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen shrub

Comments: A broadleaf evergreen shrub of compact habit to only 3' tall and wide. Introduced by the late Ohioan and hybridizer, Tony Shammarello, one of six, so-called Royal Family rhododendrons. Flowers open in mid-May, apple-blossom-pink, with 15 flowers per truss. Petals are dotted with bluish pink and green spots. Leaves are olive green year-round displaying copious felt-like hairs underneath. Makes a good foundation plant, grouping or specimen.