In future, do not amend planting holes. Rhododendron 'Polar Bear' has the vigor and size of its parents, but will bloom smaller than a seedling, being propagated from cuttings.

I think R. auriculatum is the best of the summer rhododendrons.

Thanks Ron: I have an auriculatum that is now 12 years old and when I bought it as a 6 yr plant back in 1999 there was some joking about me maybe living long enough to see it flower..This is why I was wondering how old polar bear will have to become before it flowers for the first time?? Also have Angelo (6yrs) and still waiting>>lol

I had a Polar Bear quite a few years ago until the gohpers got to it (can you believe that?) I had it in the ground for three or four years and it was already nearly 6' tall and I believe (hard for me to remember these days) that it bloomed once or twice for me. Scent was nice and sweet, too, but not too strong, as I recall.

Thanks Kris: well mine is 3 years planted (4) years old. Looks healthy it`s bout 5ft tall. No flowers this year though. Maybe next year?

I'll keep my fingers crossed for you, Sonny, and you can keep yours crossed for me that I will live to see my macabeanum bloom.