About
Rhododendron macabeanum, the McCabe rhododendron, is a magnificent evergreen large shrub or tree with bold, glossy dark-green leaves to 30 cm and greyish-white undersides. In early to mid spring it produces large, dense, rounded trusses of bell-shaped, pale to deep yellow flowers with a purple basal blotch � one of the most spectacular of all large-leafed rhododendrons for a sheltered, moist, acidic garden in a mild climate.
About the genus
Rhododendron, one of the largest and most diverse shrub genera, includes evergreen and deciduous species and hybrids ranging from dwarf alpines to large trees, all preferring moist, well-drained, acidic soil in sheltered positions with dappled shade or full sun.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height8-12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toAssam Manipur
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. Pets (dogs, cats, rabbits, tortoises) Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationSpectacular foliage plant, grow in moist but well-drained, leafy, humus-rich acid soil, in part shade with shelter, best in woodland conditions; see rhododendron cultivation
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, layering in autumn or grafting in late summer or late winter
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil, rhododendron and azalea whitefly, rhododendron leafhopper, pieris lacebug, scale insects, caterpillars and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to various Rhododendron diseases including powdery mildews, rhododendron petal blight, rhododendron bud blast, silver leaf and honey fungus