Rhododendron ‘Anah Kruschke’

Rhododendron 'Anah Kruschke': Velvety Purple Trusses with a Deep Wine Blotch

Rhododendron 'Anah Kruschke' brings rich, dramatic colour to the spring garden with full trusses of reddish-purple blooms, each one marked with a deep purplish-red blotch that adds depth and definition. Flowering from April into May, it creates a bold early-season display that glows beautifully in dappled light. The shrub forms a rounded, well-branched shape with handsome evergreen foliage, giving it year-round structure even after the blooms fade.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 3–5’
• Spread: 3–4’
• Flower Colour: Reddish-purple with a deep purplish-red blotch
• Flowering Period: April to May
• Foliage: Broadleaf evergreen, deep green
• Sunlight Requirements: Part Shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter

Uses and Benefits: A strong choice for woodland borders, shaded foundation beds, and mixed evergreen plantings where you want spring colour plus year-round presence. The dark blooms add a sophisticated note among lighter spring flowers, and the rounded habit makes it an excellent mid-border anchor shrub. It also offers early-season pollinator value while keeping the garden looking full and structured through all seasons.

Care Instructions: Plant in acidic, organic-rich soil and mulch with pine bark or shredded leaves to keep roots cool and moisture steady. Water regularly during establishment and during dry spells, especially in summer. Prune lightly right after flowering, removing spent trusses and any winter-damaged or crossing stems, and avoid heavy pruning that can reduce next year’s bloom. Shelter from harsh winter wind helps protect foliage and flower buds.

History: 'Anah Kruschke' is a long-established rhododendron valued for its saturated purple colouring, distinctive blotch, and reliable spring performance, making it a favourite in classic shade gardens and evergreen landscapes.

Final Thoughts: For gardeners who love bold spring colour with evergreen backbone, Rhododendron 'Anah Kruschke' delivers a rich, polished look that feels timeless in the shade garden.