Contents
Description
Rhododendron Albiflorum is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. Also known as the white-flowered rhododendron, it can grow up to 3 meters in height and has a spread of up to 2 meters. The plant produces clusters of fragrant, white flowers in the spring and has green foliage that turns reddish-purple in the fall. It is native to western North America and can be found in the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Northwest.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Albiflorum has a bushy habit and a rounded shape. Its leaves are elliptical and up to 10 centimeters long. The flowers are bell-shaped and up to 5 centimeters wide. They have five petals and are white in color, sometimes with a pink tinge. The plant’s bark is grayish-brown and smooth.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Albiflorum requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. It benefits from a layer of mulch to retain moisture and control weeds. Fertilizer should be applied in early spring and again in late spring or early summer. The plant prefers partial shade and can be damaged by hot, direct sunlight. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Albiflorum is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including root rot, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and aphids. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring good drainage and avoiding overwatering. Leaf spot and powdery mildew can be treated with fungicides. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Rhododendron Albiflorum is native to the western United States and Canada. It can be found in the Rocky Mountains, the Cascades, and the Coast Ranges. The plant grows in moist, shaded areas, such as stream banks, forest understories, and mountain meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Albiflorum tolerate full sun?
A: No, the plant prefers partial shade and can be damaged by hot, direct sunlight.
Q: What is the pH range for Rhododendron Albiflorum?
A: The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0.
Q: How often should Rhododendron Albiflorum be fertilized?
A: Fertilizer should be applied in early spring and again in late spring or early summer.
Q: What pests and diseases are common to Rhododendron Albiflorum?
A: Root rot, leaf spot, powdery mildew, and aphids are common pests and diseases that affect Rhododendron Albiflorum.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron macrophyllum
- Rhododendron occidentale
- Rhododendron vaseyi
- Rhododendron yakushimanum
References
- “Rhododendron Albiflorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=249814.
- “White-flowered Rhododendron.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10609/i-Rhododendron-albiflorum-i/Details.
- “Rhododendron Albiflorum.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com/rhododendron-albiflorum.
