Overview
Rhododendron balfourianum is a bushy shrubs in the genus Rhododendron, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Rhododendron balfourianum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include woodland gardens and containers on shaded patios.
About
Rhododendron balfourianum, known as Balfour’s rhododendron, is a bushy evergreen shrub within the Rhododendron genus, which includes both evergreen and deciduous shrubs or trees. It thrives best in partial shade with an east or west-facing aspect and prefers sheltered conditions. This cultivar grows well in moist but well-drained, acidic loam soil rich in humus. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and is suitable for woodland gardens or containers on shaded patios. Flowering occurs in spring, adding seasonal interest to shaded garden areas.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rhododendron
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Rhododendron balfourianum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Woodland gardens, Containers on shaded patios
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rhododendron balfourianum
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering, Grafting
- Pest resistance
- Vine weevil, Rhododendron leafhopper, Pieris lacebug, Scale insects, Caterpillars, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews, Rhododendron petal blight, Rhododendron bud blast, Silver leaf, Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Rhododendron balfourianum?
Rhododendron balfourianum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Rhododendron balfourianum need?
Rhododendron balfourianum grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Rhododendron balfourianum hardy in the UK?
Rhododendron balfourianum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Rhododendron balfourianum?
Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering, Grafting.
More in the Rhododendron genus
- Rhododendron 'Black Beauty'
- Rhododendron 'Ed Hillary'
- Rhododendron 'Falling Snow'
- Rhododendron 'Karminduft' (A)
- Rhododendron 'Libretto'
- Rhododendron 'Lugano'
- Rhododendron 'Ada Lavleisa'rhododendron 'Ada Lavleisa'
- Rhododendron 'Amarlie Crowden'