Common Rhododendron

How to grow Common Rhododendron

Written by the GardenDecoded editorial team · Last reviewed 21 July 2026 · Written for UK gardens · How we research our guidance

Pruning

It tolerates hard cutting back and will reshoot vigorously from old wood — which is part of why it is so hard to eradicate once established.

Pests and diseases

It is a significant host of Phytophthora ramorum, and infected plants in the wider landscape are subject to statutory control.

Notes

This species should not be planted. It is listed on Schedule 9 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 in England and Wales, making it an offence to plant it or cause it to grow in the wild, and it has invaded large areas of woodland and upland Britain by seed and layering. If you have inherited it, the practical approach is removal, and land managers should check current guidance on disposal and on Phytophthora restrictions before starting. It is also the rootstock on which older hybrid rhododendrons were grafted — suckers from below the graft union are this species and should be cut out. Check its toxicity, including that of honey made from it, before keeping it where children or pets have access.

This guidance was researched and written by GardenDecoded — see our editorial policy for how guides are checked and reviewed.

Other names for this plant

These names have all been used for Rhododendron ponticum but are no longer the accepted name. You may still meet them on old labels, in books, or in nursery catalogues.

Others in Rhododendron