Rhododendron Hachmanns Polaris Yak Hybrid

Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris Yak Hybrid
Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris is a small pink-flowering evergreen rhododendron with the RHS AGM. It suits small gardens and containers. 

Rhododendron Polaris is a Yak hybrid bred from rhododendron Yakushimanum by Hans Hachmann of Germany in the 1960s. Yakushimanums are a slow-growing variety that flower profusely with well-rounded trusses of attractive blooms in spring. The Hachmann's Polaris cultivar has mid to dark green foliage and abundant pink funnel-shaped flowers with frilly edges. The petal shade is light-pink purple with darker edges. The buds emerge ruby red but when open form pretty bell-shaped pink blooms about 6 cms across in rounded trusses. Polaris flowers from a young age so it’s a good choice if you like quick results.

Height and Spread of Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris
Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris is a small rhododendron that reaches a maximum height and spread of 1.5 metres over 5-10 years. It’s a good choice for small spaces and container gardens as the foliage and flowers are beautiful without getting too large.  

How Hardy Is Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris
Yak Hybrid Polaris is a tough rhododendron and hardy down to sub-zero temperatures if the roots are well-drained. Its rarely bothered by pests.

How To Use Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris
Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris is a low maintenance shrub that suits small spaces. It fits well into a woodland garden scheme, a courtyard, a rock garden, and an informal mixed border. 

How To Care for Rhododendron Hachmann's Polaris
Polaris thrives in shelter from the hot sun and harsh drying winds, so next to larger shrubs, trees, or against a protective fence line is a good spot. 
It prefers well-drained leafy acidic soil so incorporate plenty of ericaceous compost in the planting hole if your soil is alkaline, and top-dress with ericaceous mulch each year. 
If the soil is very chalky it would be best to grow Polaris in a container of ericaceous compost. Avoid planting it too deeply – to the same level as the container it arrived in is best.
There is no need to prune Yak Hybrid Polaris as it forms a naturally compact shape, but you can tidy back branches in the winter months to maintain its shape or height.