Description

General aspect and origins - Rhododendron 'Polar Bear' is a cross between R. diaprepes and R. auriculatum, obtained by John Barr Stevenson in Tower Court, 1926. It received some awards, including FCC 1946 (obtained by clone TR 3586).

'Polar Bear' is a very vigorous hybrid, that can reach up to 30 ft (10 m) tall, and that has white scented flowers.
Leaves - Young leaves of 'Polar Bear' are green-blue, with mauve leave stems. When older, they turn deep green, with a pale blue-green lower side.
Flowers - This hybrid has large white flowers that a relatively flattened. They are also scented, which is rather uncommon for rhododendrons. Flowers generally appear in mid-summer.

Culture

'Polar Bear' is a very vigorous and ornamental hybrid, which will withstand frosts down to about -5°F (-20.5°C). Overall, it is considered as one of the best late hybrids to grow.
Soil - 'Polar Bear' needs to be generously watered during the summer, as flowers appear in mid-summer (which is relatively late). When well-watered, this hybrid is very vigorous.

Propagation

This plant can be propagated by cuttings, air-layers, or can be grafted.