While many rhododendrons grow best in woodland conditions, providing dappled shade, dwarf rhododendrons flower best in full sun.

In fact, all of them need some sun to produce flower buds, but some need more sun than others. In general, most Azaleas will grow very well if they receive four hours or more of bright sun per day. Rhododendrons will grow nicely in full sun to moderate shade.

6 hours
Plant in full sun to increase flowers and avoid mildew problems. Shrubs need a minimum of 6 hours of full sun daily. Plant on the sheltered side of a windbreak. If subjected to cold, dry winds, their leaves and buds dry out and die.

Traditional rhododendrons thrive in filtered sunlight and acidic soil. Newer varieties can tolerate a range of sunlight conditions, but always check the plant tag or description when shopping to make sure the plant needs match your garden conditions. All rhododendrons grow best in soils with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0.

Rhododendrons will grow nicely in full sun to moderate shade. A few Rhododendron varieties such as ‘Caroline’, ‘Scintillation’, Yakushimanum hybrids, ‘Hong Kong’ and the hardy varieties from Finland must have some shade in midday or the foliage will yellow or even burn – especially during a hot summer.

ANSWER: Although morning sun is preferable, Mr. Smarty Plants doesn’t think your 2-3 hours of mid-noon and early afternoon sun will be a serious problem for any of the rhododendrons below, except for possibly, R. prinophyllum (early azalea) which prefers shade (less than 2 hours of sun per day).

Can hydrangeas grow in full sun? Hydrangeas like morning sun, but do not do well if they’re in direct, hot afternoon sun. Partial shade in the later parts of the day is ideal for these beauties.

Hydrangeas like morning sun, but do not do well if they’re in direct, hot afternoon sun. Partial shade in the later parts of the day is ideal for these beauties.

Rhododendrons should never be planted in full sun—they need morning sun and afternoon shade. For full sun, there are some of the repeat blooming azaleas such as Encore that will take full sun, but they will need ample water.

Some rhododendrons will flourish in full sun and some in partial shade. A happy medium is probably the best, with high filtered light from surrounding tall trees. By removing the lower branches of the trees the rhododendrons can enjoy the full early morning and late afternoon sun.

Rhododendrons and azaleas are among the most popular flowering plants for shade. But most rhododendrons will grow nicely in full sun to moderate shade. These plants are also useful in partial shade but may have problems setting flower buds and blooming if the shade is too dense.