pacific rhododendron range

Where do rhododendrons grow naturally?

There are more than 1000 different natural species in the Genus (group) Rhododendron. These wild types, called species (as differentiated from hybrids), are native to the temperate regions of Asia, North America, and Europe, as well as to the tropical regions of southeast Asia and northern Australia.

Do rhododendrons grow in California?

Some of the maddenii-type rhododendrons grow quite readily in southern California. The tropical vireya rhododendrons do well in the Los Angeles basin, and can be grown outdoors in Florida, Hawaii and in parts of Australia and New Zealand.

Does rhododendrons like sun or shade?

Most large-leafed varieties require dappled shade; avoid deep shade or full sun. A sunny spot that receives a few hours of shade is perfect. See regional guidelines below. Soil should be well-drained, humus-rich, moist, and acidic (pH 4.5–6).

What is the hardiest rhododendron?

Slightly fragrant and exceptionally cold hardy, Rhododendron 'Karens' is a very eye-catching, dense and compact, semi-evergreen Azalea.
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Hardiness	5 - 9
Season of Interest	Spring (Mid,Late) Fall Winter
Height	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)
Spread	3' - 5' (90cm - 150cm)

How many years do rhododendrons live?

Eric La Fountaine Contributor UBC Botanical Garden Forums Administrator Forums Moderator 10 Years. The life expectancy depends on the species and variety, but many types of rhodies can live for hundreds of years. Click to see full answer.

Why is Rhododendron bad?

Potentially toxic chemicals, particularly 'free' phenols, and diterpenes, occur in significant quantities in the tissues of plants of Rhododendron species. Diterpenes, known as grayanotoxins, occur in the leaves, flowers and nectar of Rhododendrons. ... These toxins make Rhododendron unpalatable to most herbivores.

Where is the best place to plant a rhododendron?

Choose a site with dappled shade in sheltered conditions. Avoid deep shade beneath other trees. Most rhododendrons will tolerate a more open site if sheltered from cold, drying winds. Dwarf alpine species will tolerate full sun provided the soil does not dry out.

Do rhododendrons grow in Florida?

Florida has just one native evergreen azalea—Chapman's Azalea or Chapman's Rhododendron (Rhododendron chapmanii). This wetlands plant is listed as a rare and endangered plant and is found only in Clay County and the central panhandle.

What zone does rhododendrons grow in?

In fact, most rhododendrons thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8. If you are pining for azaleas, you'll have to be a little more selective. Some thrive down to zone 3, but many don't grow well in such cold regions. Avoid species that are borderline hardy in favor of plants hardy to zone 4 if possible.

Are coffee grounds good for rhododendrons?

Fresh Coffee Grounds for Acid-Loving Plants

Your acid-loving plants like hydrangeas, rhododendrons, azaleas, lily of the valley, blueberries, carrots, and radishes can get a boost from fresh grounds. ... Fresh coffee grounds still have most of their caffeine content as well as the acid.

Are rhododendrons difficult to grow?

Rhododendrons need moist, acid, loose, well-drained soil that contains a good bit of organic matter. This is why they're hard to grow here. Most Southerners have either acid, clay soil or alkaline, clay soil. Rhododendrons hate both, because clay drains slowly and roots rot.

Do rhododendrons have deep roots?

Rhododendrons do not have thick, deep taproots; their roots are fine and grow very superficially. Therefore, they may need reliable moisture to avoid damage from drying out.

Are rhododendrons toxic?

The toxic component of rhododendrons and azaleas can be found in very high concentrations in honey made by bees that feed on them. ... Eating the leaves, nectar, or flowers of the plants can also lead to toxicity. Although rare, serious and life-threatening toxicity has occurred when people intentionally ate the plant.

Are rhododendrons poisonous to dogs?

All parts of the rhododendron plant are toxic for dogs. Symptoms include gastrointestinal upset followed by weakness, paralysis, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Do rhododendrons need a lot of water?

Rhododendrons are shallow-rooted plants that require water twice per week during the first growing season. ... Though rhododendrons need consistent moisture, they do not do well when sitting in wet soils, so always allow the soil to dry between waterings.

How many times do rhododendrons bloom?

Rhododendrons typically bloom for about three weeks in spring, according to Gardenia.net. But some rhododendron varieties bloom much earlier, even in winter, and some bloom as late as midsummer.

What is killing my rhododendrons?

The plants are able to survive and bloom for many years. Unfortunately, the lovely plant is prone to disease and pests. Some of the most common dangers to your rhododendron include aphids, root rot and Japanese beetles.

How big do rhododendrons get?

Mature Height/Spread. Rhododendrons come in many shapes and sizes, from the low-growing Carolina (5 to 6 feet tall), to the large native rosebay (20 feet and more). Some varieties are rounded and compact while others have a loose growth habit.

Is it necessary to deadhead rhododendrons?

The definitive answer: “It depends.” You don't have to deadhead your rhody to get flowers. ... If you decide to deadhead, you'll find that the old flower trusses snap right off, but take care not to injure the new buds at the base of the spent flowers in the process.

Do rhododendrons spread?

Some varieties naturally have a rounded, ball-shaped plant habit, others are open and spreading, while other rhododendrons have an upright growth habit. You can find a rhododendron to fit any specific garden need.

Why do rhododendrons turn yellow?

If your soil is alkaline, you've found one reason for rhododendron leaves turning yellow: a mineral deficiency causing chlorosis. These shrubs take up too much calcium and not enough iron in alkaline soils. Chlorosis is very likely when the yellowing is mostly between the veins of new leaves.