The name Rhododendron literally translates to "rose tree". The species R. catawbiense is found throughout the Appalachian Mountains. Not only is it the state flower of West Virginia, it is also on the state flag.
This Azalea is a favorite in Japan for it's impressive adaptability and easy maintenance. It is a favorite for use as a bonsai and for the rare spots of color in the delicate starkness of a Japanese inspired garden. A unique feature of this Azalea is its ability to have several colored blooms on the same plant. The flowers can range from white to pink to red, and form fairly late in the season.
| Plant Types: | Perennial, Shrub |
| Light: | Partial Shade to Partial Sun |
| Height: | 5 feet to 6 feet |
| Width: | 4 feet to 8 feet |
| Zones: | 7a to 10b |
| Bloom Color: | Lavender, Pink, Red, Salmon, White |
| Bloom Seasons: | Early spring, Mid spring, Late spring, Early fall, Mid fall, Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter, Late winter |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | All or parts of this plant are poisonous, Not North American native |
| Shape: | Rounded |
| Fertilizer: | Water Soluble Acid-Loving Plant Food |
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Sow seeds in soil that is acidic as soon as the seeds are ripe or in early spring. Maintain the temperature between 55 and 65°F. It should be noted that Rhododendrons readily hybridize and seeds collected from your garden may produce offspring that do not closely resemble the parents.
Rhododendrons do best with filtered sunlight. Generally, these plants will need more protection from the sun as the climate gets sunnier and hotter. They do best in cooler, temperate climates that have sufficient rainfall.
Blooms in early Spring. There are many varieties of Rhododendrons and Azaleas that come in many different colors and styles.
Need fast-draining soils that are rich and acidic. Does best if the soil also retains sufficient quantities of water (amend soil with organic matter to do so). These plants need more air in the root zone than most plants do. Plants that are yellowing and that have leaves that are dropping are most likely sitting in water and the roots are drowning.
Established plants require acidic fertilizer to flourish well before bloom. When the floral buds begin to swell in early Spring, apply another treatment of acidic fertilizer. When the flowers begin to fade and new leaves are sprouting, feed again.
Prone to whitefly, lace bugs, scale, caterpillars and aphids. Susceptible to powdery mildew, leafy gall and root rot.