Name: The Plant Company
Address: 284 Meeanee Road, Meeanee, Napier, 4112, New Zealand
Telephone: 0800 843 752
Price range: Contact Us
Rating: 4.8/5

fragrant rhododendron

Searching for a fragrant rhododendron to elevate your New Zealand garden? You’re not alone – gardeners everywhere are rediscovering the magical combination of lush blooms and intoxicating perfume these remarkable shrubs offer. Unlike their cousins, fragrant rhododendrons bring a whole new sensory dimension, filling the air with sweet scents as well as vibrant colour. Whether you want a stunning focal point, a scented hedge, or simply a special addition to your landscape, these rhododendrons are perfect for spaces where you want to linger and enjoy the aroma.

Rhododendron 'Princess Alice'

Rhododendron 'Princess Alice' is a beautiful evergreen shrub prized for its elegant clusters of soft cream to pale pink flowers that create a spectacular display during spring. The lush green foliage provides year round structure and interest, making this variety a standout addition to New Zealand gardens.

Buy Rhododendron 'Princess Alice'

From $28.91

Suited to regions: All regions

Plant type: Shrubs

Height: 1.50 m

Spread: 1.50 m

Flowering time: Spring

Garden uses: Living areas, Pool areas

Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, Rock, Tropical

Michelia 'Princess Cinderella'

Michelia 'Princess Cinderella' is an elegant evergreen tree admired for its glossy green foliage and masses of highly fragrant creamy white flowers. The blooms appear over an extended period, creating a stunning display while filling the garden with a delightful perfume.

Buy Michelia 'Princess Cinderella'

From $34.43

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate

Plant type: Trees

Height: 3.00 m

Spread: 2.00 m

Flowering time: Spring

Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen

Garden styles: Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern

Why Choose a Fragrant Rhododendron?

Planting a fragrant rhododendron is about much more than looks. The rich perfume creates a welcoming garden atmosphere, encouraging you and your guests to stop and savour the moment. Many varieties bloom in late spring, offering both eye-catching flowers and fragrance when other winter and early spring bloomers fade. They're also ideal for planting near patios, entranceways, or paths, so the scent can be enjoyed every day. With proper care, rhododendrons thrive in New Zealand conditions, preferring dappled shade and acid soils, making them a reliable, rewarding shrub for gardeners of all experience levels.

Popular Fragrant Rhododendron Varieties

Not all rhododendrons are scented, so choosing the right variety is key. Fortunately, there are exquisite fragrant rhododendron cultivars available. Here are a few outstanding choices:

Rhododendron Scented Sun: A cheerful, lightly-perfumed yellow rhododendron, Scented Sun is admired for its bold blooms and reliable garden performance.
Rhododendron Princess Alice: This classic rhododendron offers a delicate, sweet fragrance and large, trusses of pale petals, perfect for cottage gardens or shaded spaces.
Rhododendron Fragrantissimum: One of the most fragrant rhododendrons available, Fragrantissimum lives up to its name with creamy white blooms and a wonderfully rich scent.
Rhododendron Loderi Patience: Known for its giant, softly scented flowers, Loderi Patience is a favourite for those seeking a statement shrub with a gentle perfume.
Rhododendron Virginalis: This elegant, pure white rhododendron combines an alluring fragrance with refined garden style.

Where to Plant Fragrant Rhododendron

A fragrant rhododendron performs best in sheltered locations with morning sun and afternoon shade. They appreciate protection from strong wind and prefer humus-rich, well-drained soils. Consider planting near outdoor seating areas, along walkways, or beside entrances for maximum fragrance appreciation. These rhododendrons also make excellent additions to woodland gardens and semi-shaded borders, mingling beautifully with early-flowering camellias and lush ferns.

Caring for Your Fragrant Rhododendron

Maintaining a fragrant rhododendron is straightforward. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, mulch well to conserve moisture, and avoid lime-based fertilisers. Pruning is minimal but can help shape the plant and remove spent blooms. With minimal fuss, these shrubs will reward you with years of beauty and scent.

Explore Fragrant Rhododendrons for Your NZ Garden

Ready to add a fragrant rhododendron to your collection? Explore our range, including Rhododendron Scented Sun, Rhododendron Princess Alice, Rhododendron Fragrantissimum, Rhododendron Loderi Patience, and Rhododendron Virginalis varieties. Enjoy the best of colour and fragrance in your garden, and discover why scented rhododendrons are a treasured addition to New Zealand landscapes.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

fragrant rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Princess Alice'

Michelia 'Princess Cinderella'

Did you find what you are looking for?

Why Choose a Fragrant Rhododendron?

Popular Fragrant Rhododendron Varieties

Where to Plant Fragrant Rhododendron

Caring for Your Fragrant Rhododendron

Explore Fragrant Rhododendrons for Your NZ Garden

Contact us

Explore Garden Inspiration

fragrant rhododendron

Rhododendron 'Princess Alice'

Michelia 'Princess Cinderella'

Did you find what you are looking for?

Why Choose a Fragrant Rhododendron?

Popular Fragrant Rhododendron Varieties

Where to Plant Fragrant Rhododendron

Caring for Your Fragrant Rhododendron

Explore Fragrant Rhododendrons for Your NZ Garden

Contact us

Explore Garden Inspiration

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