The reddish-purple flowers of the Victor P.J.M. hybrid rhododendron (Rhododendron 'P.J.M. Victor') are produced a couple of days earlier than other selections of the P.J.M. grex of rhododendrons. The leaves change from deep green to a mahogany color in late fall and, in a mild winter, will remain on the plants until spring. P.J.M. rhododendrons are among the most reliable and commonly sold rhododendrons in the Chicago area. Like other rhododendrons, this cultivar grows best in moisture-retentive, acidic soils in climates with cool summers. Water it well the first couple of years after planting to ensure that the small, fibrous roots growing near the soil surface become well-established.