Overview
Rhododendron impeditum 'Compactum' is a bushy shrubs in the genus Rhododendron, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Rhododendron impeditum 'Compactum' 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 impeditum 'Compactum' is a bushy, evergreen cultivar of the Rhododendron genus, which includes both evergreen and deciduous shrubs or trees with simple leaves and funnel-shaped, bell-shaped, or tubular flowers. This cultivar thrives in partial shade, particularly in east- or west-facing, sheltered locations. It prefers moist but well-drained acidic loam soil and is hardy in the UK to H5. Ideal for woodland gardens or containers on shaded patios, it is best cultivated in dappled shade with mulch of leaf mould and propagated by semi-ripe cuttings, layering, or grafting.
About the genus
Rhododendron, from Ancient Greek ῥόδον (rhódon), meaning "rose", and δένδρον (déndron), meaning "tree", is a very large genus of about 1,024 species of woody plants in the heath family (Ericaceae). They can be either evergreen or deciduous. Most species are native to eastern Asia and the Himalayan region, but smaller numbers occur elsewhere in Asia, and in North America, Europe and Australia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Rhododendron", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Rhododendron
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 impeditum 'Compactum' 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 impeditum 'Compactum'
- 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 impeditum 'Compactum'?
Rhododendron impeditum 'Compactum' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Rhododendron impeditum 'Compactum' need?
Rhododendron impeditum 'Compactum' grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Rhododendron impeditum 'Compactum' hardy in the UK?
Rhododendron impeditum 'Compactum' 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 impeditum 'Compactum'?
Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering, Grafting.
From the Fenn Plants journal
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More in the Rhododendron genus
- Rhododendron 'Falling Snow'

- Rhododendron 'Libretto'
- Rhododendron 'Pink Cherub'

- Rhododendron 'Silver Thimbles' (V)

- Rhododendron ochraceum

- Rhododendron trichostomum deep form

- Rhododendron 'Ben Vrackie' (K)
- Rhododendron 'Diana'