purple many-flowered rhododendron

Grow in moist but well-drained, humus rich, acidic soil. Position in partial or dappled shade, or in full sun in cooler spots where the soil does not dry out. Choose a site away from frost pockets and sheltered from strong winds, and mulch annually, ideally with leaf mould. See rhododendron cultivation for more detailed advice

Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer

May be susceptible to vine weevil, rhododendron and azalea whitefly, rhododendron leafhopper, Pieris lacebug, scale insects, caterpillars and aphids

May be susceptible to powdery mildews, honey fungus, silver leaf and Phytophthora, as well as more specific Rhododendron diseases