Overview
Rhododendron tomentosum is a bushy shrubs in the genus Rhododendron, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Rhododendron tomentosum 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 tomentosum, commonly known as wild rosemary or Labrador tea, is a bushy evergreen shrub within the Rhododendron genus, which includes both evergreen and deciduous shrubs or trees. This cultivar thrives in acidic, moist but well-drained loam soils, ideally in sheltered, dappled shade with an east or west-facing aspect. It is hardy to UK zone H5 and is suitable for woodland gardens or containers on shaded patios. Interest in this plant spans both spring and winter seasons, reflecting its year-round appeal.
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 tomentosum 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 tomentosum
- 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 tomentosum?
Rhododendron tomentosum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Rhododendron tomentosum need?
Rhododendron tomentosum grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Rhododendron tomentosum hardy in the UK?
Rhododendron tomentosum 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 tomentosum?
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'