A free flowering shrub with masses of bright red flowers for a long period. Photo is lighter than actually colour.
Size:
2m x 1m
Growing Conditions:
Rhododendron’s prefer dappled shade, but can be grown in full sun if protected from afternoon sun or kept well watered. They need soil that is well worked and doesn’t dry out. Applying mulch will aid in keeping in moisture and keeping their roots cool. Rhododendron’s have what is known as a fibrous root system, which is a fine series of roots close to the surface. This means Rhododendron’s don’t like a lot of soil disturbance as it can damage their roots and encourage diseases.
Care:
Prune after flowering to maintain shape and to promote new growth which will form next season’s flower buds. They are generally trouble free but do watch out for Thrip damage which is noticeable by a silvering of the leaves. Spray with a suitable insecticide to control, making sure you spray the underside of the leaf. Also, the new growth is rather soft so be careful of those late frosts.
Uses:
· Suitable container plant, especially the more compact Yak varieties.
· Under-plant trees. Great ‘woodland’ plant, especially if mass planted with other suitable plants such as Hostas or Azaleas.
· Use in mixed shrubberies for early colour.
· Easy care filler for most gardens. Brilliant early season colour.
Comments:
With such a wide range of colours (from whites, through pinks, yellows, oranges to lavenders, blues and purples) and a range of sizes from small compact shrubs to large trees, there is a Rhododendron to suit most situations. And with flowering times that range from mid-winter to mid-summer it might be hard to stop at only one or two varieties.
Continue to 'Kaponga' or back to Reds.