R. 'Gerdeman's Gem'

This exceptional R. maddenii hybrid was created by the late Jim Gerdeman of Yachats, Oregon. The seed parent is a prize winning form of Rhododendron burmanicum, grown by the Thompson Nursery in Waldport, Oregon. This fine form of the species was crossed with the large flower and fragrant 'Mi Amor'. I believe Jim's hopes were to bring in the larger flower genetics, along with the fragrance, which he accomplished! The plant habit is much more compact than 'Mi Amor', and the flowers are smaller than the flowers of that cultivar, but there are many more of them, making quite a show in spring. Our specimen in the garden is about 4ft x 4ft after 12 years of time. The colors are creamy yellow and white and bloom time is mid April. This plant is tender, only hardy to zone 8, but for those who can grow it, it will be a top favorite! We wanted to honor Jim, so will be registering it as 'Gerdeman's Gem'.  

Rare Variety – This variety is difficult to find anywhere due to these reasons

These tender varieties are rare because they do not have a wide enough audience due to their lack of hardiness and are overlooked by the big growers.

Singing Tree Gardens has made these rare varieties our passion and remain committed to producing them for future generations. Currently we are the only source in the USA for these tender, FRAGRANT plants.