Overview
Rhododendron orbiculare subsp. orbiculare is a bushy shrubs in the genus Rhododendron, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Rhododendron orbiculare subsp. orbiculare 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 orbiculare subsp. orbiculare is a bushy, evergreen shrub belonging to the Rhododendron genus, which includes both evergreen and deciduous shrubs or trees. This cultivar thrives in partial shade, ideally in east- or west-facing, sheltered positions with moist but well-drained acidic loam soil. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and is well suited to woodland gardens or containers on shaded patios. The plant is best cultivated in dappled shade and can be propagated by semi-ripe cuttings, layering, or grafting, with spring being its season of interest.
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 orbiculare subsp. orbiculare 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 orbiculare subsp. orbiculare
- 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 orbiculare subsp. orbiculare?
Rhododendron orbiculare subsp. orbiculare prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Rhododendron orbiculare subsp. orbiculare need?
Rhododendron orbiculare subsp. orbiculare grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Rhododendron orbiculare subsp. orbiculare hardy in the UK?
Rhododendron orbiculare subsp. orbiculare 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 orbiculare subsp. orbiculare?
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'