‘Cunningham’s Blush’ rhododendron is a popular evergreen shrub known for its beautiful blooms. It offers year-round interest and brings elegance to various landscape settings.
Understanding Cunningham’s Blush
‘Cunningham’s Blush’ is an evergreen shrub with a dense, spreading habit, typically reaching 4 to 6 feet tall and wide. Its foliage features medium-sized, leathery, dark green oval leaves. In late April to mid-spring, it produces abundant clusters of funnel-shaped flowers. These blooms emerge as soft pink buds, opening to delicate pink petals with subtle darker spotting, often fading to a blush pink. It is cold hardy, thriving in USDA Zones 5 to 8.
Planting and Site Selection
Proper site selection is key for ‘Cunningham’s Blush’. It performs best in partial shade to filtered sun, ideally with morning sun and dappled afternoon shade, as protection from harsh afternoon sun is beneficial. Excessive shade can lead to reduced flowering. Choose a sheltered spot, protected from strong winds, to prevent foliage damage.
Rhododendrons, including ‘Cunningham’s Blush’, require well-draining, moisture-retentive soil rich in organic matter and acidic, with an ideal pH of 4.5 to 6.0. Heavy clay soils are unsuitable due to poor drainage, which can lead to root issues. If your soil is heavy clay, planting in a raised bed or mound is often the best solution. Before planting, amend the soil generously with acidic organic matter like compost or aged pine bark to improve drainage and aeration. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but only as deep. Ensure the top of the root ball is at or slightly above the surrounding soil level, as planting too deeply is detrimental. Backfill with amended soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Watering
Consistent moisture is important, particularly during the first year after planting. ‘Cunningham’s Blush’ has shallow root systems that do not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so well-drained soil is essential to prevent root rot. Water deeply and slowly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. During dry periods, established plants may require watering every two to three weeks. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as aged wood chips or pine bark, around the plant to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature.
Feeding
If planted in fertile, organic-rich soil, regular fertilization may not be necessary. For less fertile soils, apply a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Follow product instructions carefully, as rhododendrons do not require much fertilizer, and over-fertilization can harm roots and foliage.
Pruning
‘Cunningham’s Blush’ maintains a dense, compact habit, so heavy pruning is rarely needed. The primary task is deadheading spent blooms after flowering to encourage new growth over seed production. Light shaping can maintain the plant’s form and promote bushiness. Pruning should occur shortly after blooming to allow new flower buds to form for the next season.
Protecting Your Plant
Winter Protection
In colder regions, ‘Cunningham’s Blush’ benefits from winter protection. Apply an additional layer of mulch around the base before winter to insulate roots from temperature fluctuations. In exposed locations, protect from drying winter winds and sun by wrapping the plant in burlap or constructing a temporary screen. Ensure the plant is well-hydrated before the ground freezes to prevent desiccation.
Common Pests
Rhododendrons can occasionally be affected by certain pests. Lace bugs (Stephanitis rhododendri) are a common concern, causing pale speckles on upper leaf surfaces and dark spots underneath. Regular inspection of leaf undersides helps early identification. Horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps are effective, especially on young lace bugs, requiring thorough coverage. Natural predators like lacewings can also help.
Rhododendron borers are another potential, though less common, pest. Strategies for managing pests often involve cultural practices that promote plant health, making the plant less susceptible to infestations. Hand removal is effective for small infestations.
Common Diseases
Good cultural practices reduce disease risk. Root rot, caused by Phytophthora, is common in poorly drained soils. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and wilting. Ensuring proper soil drainage is the most effective preventative measure. If drainage is a persistent problem, planting in raised beds can help.
Other potential diseases include powdery mildew and leaf spots, appearing as discoloration on foliage. Maintain good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and promptly remove infected plant material to prevent fungal issues. Overall plant vigor, achieved through proper planting and ongoing care, is the best defense.
Landscape Applications
‘Cunningham’s Blush’ is a versatile plant for various garden designs. Its dense, evergreen foliage and showy spring blooms make it an excellent choice for foundation plantings, providing year-round structure and seasonal color. It performs well in woodland gardens, aligning with its preference for partial shade.
This rhododendron can be used in mixed borders, adding an evergreen element and spring pink. It is suitable for mass plantings or as a specimen shrub. Companion plants with similar needs for acidic, well-draining soil and partial shade include azaleas, hostas, and ferns, creating a harmonious display.