Rhododendron Hybrid ‘Marcel Menard’ – Deep Purple Elegance for Year-Round Evergreen Structure
Rhododendron ‘Marcel Menard’ is a striking evergreen hybrid prized for its large, deep violet-purple blooms and reliable, robust form. Flowering in late spring, this cultivar offers a dramatic burst of color with its richly hued blossoms accented by a dark maroon blotch. Its dense, leathery foliage and rounded habit make it a superb structural shrub that brings both seasonal interest and year-round greenery to the garden.
Perfect for woodland borders, foundation plantings, or as a standout specimen, ‘Marcel Menard’ thrives in semi-shade and brings bold character to acid-loving planting schemes.
Seasonal Beauty & Growth
Spring:
In mid to late spring, bold trusses of velvety purple flowers emerge, each floret boasting a striking maroon flare in the upper petal. These large blooms are held above a backdrop of lush, dark evergreen leaves.
Summer:
Following its spectacular bloom, the shrub retains its glossy green foliage, offering structure and a deep, calming green presence in the landscape.
Autumn:
The foliage continues to provide form and interest as other plants fade, making it a valuable evergreen for seasonal continuity.
Winter:
‘Marcel Menard’ holds its dense foliage throughout winter, resisting wind and cold, while contributing year-round shape and color to the garden.
Structure & Form
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Height: 1.5–2.5 m
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Spread: 1.5–2.5 m
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Growth Habit: Compact, rounded, and bushy
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Foliage: Large, leathery, dark green leaves with a slightly glossy finish
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Flowers: Rich violet-purple with a maroon blotch, in dense rounded trusses
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Growth Rate: Moderate
Perfect for Various Landscapes
Woodland Borders: Thrives under the dappled canopy of trees and complements other shade-loving plants.
Mixed Shrub Borders: Adds depth and flower interest to rhododendron groupings or acid-loving schemes.
Foundation Plantings: Excellent for creating evergreen structure along buildings or driveways.
Specimen Shrub: Stands out as a focal point when planted solo, especially in bloom.
Container Planting: Suitable for large containers in shaded courtyards or terraces, with proper soil conditions.
Growing Conditions & Care
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Position: Prefers partial shade but will tolerate morning sun if soil remains cool and moist.
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Soil: Requires acidic, well-drained, humus-rich soil. Avoid alkaline or chalky ground.
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Hardiness: Very hardy UK H6–H7, capable of withstanding cold winters.
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Watering: Water during prolonged dry periods, especially in the first few years after planting.
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Maintenance: Minimal pruning. Deadhead after flowering to conserve energy for next year’s blooms. Mulch annually with pine bark or leaf mould.
Why Choose Rhododendron ‘Marcel Menard’?
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Dramatic Purple Flowers: Rare and bold bloom color, with rich maroon detailing.
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Evergreen Beauty: Glossy dark foliage maintains year-round structure and interest.
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Hardy & Reliable: Performs well in cooler climates and challenging locations.
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Shade-Tolerant: Ideal for woodland gardens or areas with filtered light.
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Low-Maintenance: Once established, needs little care beyond basic soil and moisture needs.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Acid-Loving Companions: Pair with Pieris japonica, Kalmia latifolia, or Camellia japonica.
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Underplanting: Use with Heuchera, Hosta, Ferns, or Epimedium for ground-level texture and contrast.
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Spring Interest: Combine with early bloomers like Magnolia, Cornus florida, or Azaleas.
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Foliage Companions: Add interest with Hakonechloa, Brunnera, or silver-leaved plants like Pulmonaria.
Rhododendron ‘Marcel Menard’ offers a rich, sophisticated floral display paired with year-round evergreen structure, making it a dependable and striking addition to shaded gardens. Whether used as a statement specimen or part of a larger rhododendron border, its deep purple trusses and hardy nature ensure lasting impact in any acid-loving landscape.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
