'Blue Success' (ARS981): Elepidote rhododendron. (('Epoch' x 'Barto Blue') x augustinii Kehrs Hardy 896). H(1986), G(1992), N(1997), and REG(1997): August E Kehr, Hendersonville NC. Fls 10-12/ball truss, broadly funnel-shaped, 1.4" (35mm) long x 2.4" (60mm) wide, 5-lobed with wavy margins; deep vilet in bud, opening very light violet inside, unmarked; outside light purple (87C). Truss 3" (75mm) high x 4" (100mm) wide. Lvs held 3 years, elliptic, decurved margins, rounded base, breoadly acute apex, 2.25" (55mm) x 1.1" (30mm); dull,deep green, with very light brown scales below. Shrub 4' (1.2m) tall x 3' (0,9m) wide in 11 years, dense habit. Plant hardy to at least -15°F ( 26°C); buds, -5°F (-21°C). Mid April.