In cultivation, Rhododendron spinuliferum grows best in acidic soils of pH 4–6 with a shady aspect and significant organic material in the soil, although excess shade will result in few flowers and leggy habit.
In cultivation, Rhododendron spinuliferum performs best in acidic soil conditions of pH 4–6 with a shady aspect and sufficient organic material, though excessive shade will diminish flower production and elongate the plant's growth.