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Description
Rhododendron Arborescens, commonly known as the Smooth Azalea, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 10 feet tall. The plant produces showy clusters of fragrant white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and elliptical in shape. The fruit is a dry capsule that contains small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
The Rhododendron Arborescens has a rounded growth habit and can reach up to 10 feet in height and width. The bark is gray and smooth. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and elliptical in shape, with a length of 2-6 inches and a width of 1-3 inches. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and range from white to pale pink, with a diameter of 2-3 inches. The fruit is a dry capsule that contains small seeds.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Arborescens prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, and benefits from mulching to retain moisture. Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Arborescens is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including spider mites, lace bugs, root rot, and powdery mildew. Spider mites and lace bugs can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Rhododendron Arborescens is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in wetlands, along streams and rivers, and in moist wooded areas. It prefers acidic soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: When do Rhododendron Arborescens bloom?
A: The plant produces showy clusters of fragrant white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Q: What is the preferred growing zone for Rhododendron Arborescens?
A: It is hardy in zones 5-9.
Q: How tall can Rhododendron Arborescens grow?
A: It can grow up to 10 feet tall.
Q: What kind of soil does Rhododendron Arborescens prefer?
A: It prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron Austrinum
- Rhododendron Canescens
- Rhododendron Maximum
- Rhododendron Prunifolium
References
- “Rhododendron arborescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed February 1, 2022. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277949&isprofile=0&basic=rhododendron%20arborescens
- “Rhododendron arborescens.” North Carolina State University. Accessed February 1, 2022. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/rhododendron-arborescens/
- “Rhododendron arborescens.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. Accessed February 1, 2022. https://hort.uconn.edu/detail.php?pid=387
