About
Rhododendron rubiginosum is a vigorous evergreen shrub or small tree with dark-green leaves, brown-scaled on the undersides. In April and May it produces funnel-shaped, lilac-pink flowers with reddish spots around the throat. Tolerant of exposed sites and neutral soil � one of the more adaptable of the scaly-leafed rhododendrons for garden planting.
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
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHNeutral, Acid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toChina Myanmar
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
CultivationGrow in moist , humus-rich soil ideally in light dappled or part-day shade. Apply a mulch of chipped conifer bark annually in late winter. Keep plants well watered until established. See rhododendron cultivation for further information
PruningPruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer; layer in autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to vine weevil, rhododendron and azalea whiteflies, leaf hoppers, lacebugs, scale insects, caterpillars and aphids
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, bud blast, honey fungus, rust, leafy gall, petal blight, silver leaf, Phytophthora root and shoot rots