Rhododendron (Rhododendron 'Lisenne Rockefeller' SOUTHGATE DIVINE)
Rhododendron 'Lisenne Rockefeller' SOUTHGATE DIVINE is a heat-tolerant Rhododendron offering large, light pink blooms in May. Zones 6-9.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE is a standout hybrid bred specifically for improved heat tolerance, making it a valuable addition for gardeners outside traditional cool-climate areas. As part of the robust SOUTHGATE® series, this Rhododendron thrives where other varieties struggle, providing reliable structure and stunning springtime color. Its broadleaf evergreen foliage offers year-round visual interest in the landscape.
This impressive cultivar matures to a manageable size of 4 to 5 feet tall and wide, making it versatile for various landscape applications. It produces abundant clusters of flowers that emerge from pink buds, opening to ruffled light pink to white blossoms speckled with captivating red to purple flecks. Gardeners appreciate the Rhododendron for its substantial, showy spring display.
The best performance for Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE is achieved when planted in sites receiving protection from the harshest afternoon sun, coupled with consistently acidic, well-drained soil. Proper siting and care ensure this beautiful Rhododendron remains healthy, delivering its signature bloom reliably each May.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Ericaceae
- Plant Type: Broadleaf evergreen
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 4-5 ft
- Spread: 4-5 ft
- Bloom Time: May
- Bloom Description: Light pink to white with red to purple flecks
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
Planting Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE requires careful attention to soil structure and pH. These plants perform best when set in acidic, organically rich, humusy soils that retain some moisture but drain exceptionally well. Avoid wet feet, as poor drainage guarantees root rot. Raised beds are highly recommended for heavy clay soils in regions like the St. Louis area. Site the plant where it can receive dappled light or high open shade, though morning sun followed by afternoon protection is ideal. Protect all Rhododendrons from strong winds.
Consistent moisture management is key to successful cultivation. Roots are shallow and fibrous, meaning they must never be allowed to dry out, especially during warm periods. Apply a thick layer of mulch, such as pine needles or wood chips, around the root zone to stabilize soil temperatures and conserve moisture. Do not cultivate near the base of the plant. Soil pH should ideally be maintained between 5.0 and 5.5; adjust acidity downwards using sulfur or iron sulfate as needed.
Maintenance for this Rhododendron involves removing spent flower clusters promptly after blooming has finished, which encourages stronger performance the following year. Regular feeding focused on acid-loving plant fertilizers helps sustain vigor. Be highly cautious about proximity to walnut family trees, as the allelopathic juglone toxins produced by their roots are toxic to Rhododendrons.
Landscape Uses
This versatile Rhododendron excels in numerous landscape settings. At 4-5 feet tall, Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE functions perfectly as a specimen plant due to its substantial flowers and evergreen structure. It is an excellent choice for defining shrub borders or adding mass planting interest throughout woodland-style gardens or areas favoring shade.
Its upright, dense growth habit makes it particularly suitable for use as an informal hedge, softening property lines or pathways. Consider pairing this variety with other acid-loving companions such as camellias, azaleas, or ferns, ensuring mutual cultural requirements are met. It also performs admirably in mixed borders where its dense habit can visually anchor less structural plantings. Foundation plantings benefit from the consistent presence of this heat-tolerant genus.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Rhododendron is a genus of 500 to 900 species and includes both of what we commonly call rhododendrons and azaleas. Most are evergreen but some are deciduous. They originate mostly from the Northern Hemisphere with high concentrations in western China, the Himalayas and Myanmar (Burma). They are grown for their showy spring flowers and in the case of evergreen types for their attractive winter foliage. True rhododendrons have 10 stamens in a flower and azaleas have only 5. Much hybridization has resulted in a great number of hybrid cultivars. Of note to gardeners in cool temperate areas are the large and small leaved evergreen rhododendrons and the evergreen and deciduous azaleas. The evergreen rhododendrons produce large to small, linear leaves that are stiff and evergreen. They usually branch from a central trunk unlike the evergreen and deciduous azalea that are multi-stemmed from the ground. Large trusses of flowers are produced at the tips of branches followed by a flush of new leaves. Colors range from white to pink, red, and purple. Size can range from 1-2 feet to over 15 feet tall depending upon the cultivar.Genus name comes from the Greek words rhodo meaning rose and dendron meaning tree. Transferred from the Greek name for Nerium oleander.‘Lisenne Rockefeller’, which is sold under the trade name SOUTHGATE® DIVINE™, was bred by Dr. John T. Thornton of Louisiana using Rhododendron ‘Catalode’ and Rhododendron hyperythrum as the parents. Mature plants will reach 4-5’ tall with an equal spread. It is in the Southgate® series, rhododendrons that are heat tolerant and thrive in the Deep South. It produces abundant clusters of pink buds that open into large ruffled light pink to white flowers with red to purple flecks. Named for the wife of the former Lieutenant Governor of Arkansas.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
Potential Problems
Rhododendrons and azaleas are susceptible to many insect and disease problems. Insect pests include aphids, borers, lacebugs, caterpillars, leafhoppers, mealybugs, nematodes, scale, thrips and whitefly, while mites may also appear. Disease pests include blights, canker, crown rot, leaf gall, root rot, leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. A common issue leading to yellowing leaves is chlorosis, typically signaling an iron deficiency caused by excessively high soil pH levels.
Maintaining optimal cultural conditions is the best defense against these issues. Fortunately, SOUTHGATE® rhododendrons like Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE exhibit reputed high tolerance to many common diseases, fungi, and insects. Ensure soil acidity is correct (pH 5.0-5.5) to prevent nutrient lockout and subsequent chlorosis. Vigilant inspection during seasonal changes helps catch localized infestations before widespread damage occurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE suitable for?
This cultivar is reliably hardy across USDA Zones 6 through 9, making it suitable for a broad range of temperate climates.
How large does Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE grow?
When fully mature, this Rhododendron typically achieves a height between 4 and 5 feet, with a comparable spread of 4 to 5 feet.
When does Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE bloom?
This plant is known for its bloom time in May, presenting abundant clusters of light pink to white flowers accented by distinctive red to purple flecks.
What sun exposure does Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE need?
It prefers conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade, though afternoon shade is generally beneficial, especially in hotter microclimates.
Conclusion
Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE offers gardeners a reliable, heat-tolerant broadleaf evergreen that explodes with color in May. Its manageable size and structural foliage make it a premium choice for borders and specimen planting across USDA Zones 6-9. Before planting, ensure your site offers the required acidic, well-drained soil to unlock the full potential of this magnificent Rhododendron.
Companion Planting
Choosing appropriate neighbors is crucial when planting any Rhododendron due to their specific soil requirements. Plants that thrive in acidic, rich, moist, but well-drained sites will naturally complement the needs of ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE. Excellent companions include various ferns, which appreciate the same dappled light conditions often preferred by Rhododendrons.
Consider integrating other acid-loving shrubs like Japanese Maples (ensuring protection from walnut trees is maintained), Kalmia (Mountain Laurel), and evergreen Azaleas. Groundcovers such as Hosta cultivars or creeping Phlox can help shade the shallow soil surface, further aiding moisture retention, which benefits the fibrous roots of the Rhododendron.
Design Ideas for Mediterranean Climates
While Rhododendron ‘Lisenne Rockefeller’ SOUTHGATE DIVINE is heat-tolerant, careful placement maximizes performance in warmer regions. Utilize north-facing exposures or the bright shade cast by taller structures or trees during the hottest part of the day. The structure of this broadleaf evergreen makes it ideal for creating year-round visual anchors in transitional shade gardens bordering woodland edges.
Use this cultivar near entryways or patios where its spring bloom display can be easily appreciated without requiring heavy pruning. When massed, its uniform 4-5 foot height creates a striking, continuous hedge effect. Ensure adequate space is left between individual Rhododendron plants to allow for mature spread and proper air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal issues.
