One of the parents is the Chinese William’s rhododendron (R. williamsianum), which is tender in the Suomi climate, but it has been much used in crossings throughout the world because of its bell-like flowers, round leaves and low habit. The other parent, the Catawba rhododendron (R. catawbiense), contributes improved hardiness. The same parents have produced the varieties ‘Boccia’, ‘Minas Grand Pre’, and ‘Vater Böhlje’, the last two also growing in Finland.