Contents
Description
Rhododendron Auriculatum, also known as the Eared Rhododendron, is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to the Himalayas in India and Nepal. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 6 meters tall and produces stunning clusters of pink or white flowers in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
The leaves of Rhododendron Auriculatum are large and leathery, measuring up to 25cm long and 10cm wide. They are dark green on the top and have a lighter green underside. The flowers of this plant are funnel-shaped and can be pink or white. They are usually around 6cm in diameter and grow in clusters of 10-15.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Auriculatum requires specific care to thrive. Here is a guide to help you care for your plant:
Water
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during dry periods, especially during the summer months.
Fertilization
Use a fertilizer that is formulated specifically for Rhododendrons. Apply it in the early spring and again in early summer.
Soil
Plant the Rhododendron Auriculatum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
Sunlight
Place the plant in a location where it will receive partial shade. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
Hardiness Zones
Rhododendron Auriculatum is hardy in zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Some common pests and diseases that Rhododendron Auriculatum may encounter include:
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
- Phytophthora root rot
- Powdery mildew
Habitat
Rhododendron Auriculatum is native to the Himalayas in India and Nepal. It grows in forests and shrublands at elevations of 2000-4000 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Auriculatum grow in full sun?
A: No, this plant cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods of time. It should be placed in a location where it will receive partial shade.
Q: What kind of soil does Rhododendron Auriculatum need?
A: Rhododendron Auriculatum requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5.
Q: How often should I water my Rhododendron Auriculatum?
A: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during dry periods, especially during the summer months.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rhododendron Auriculatum?
A: Rhododendron Auriculatum is hardy in zones 7-9.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron arboreum
- Rhododendron campanulatum
- Rhododendron cinnabarinum
- Rhododendron luteum
References
- Rhododendron auriculatum – Plant Finder. (n.d.). Retrieved October 27, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286704&isprofile=0&basic=rhododendron
- Rhododendron auriculatum. (n.d.). Retrieved October 27, 2021, from https://www.rhododendron.org/descriptionH_new.asp?ID=278
- Rhododendron auriculatum. (n.d.). Retrieved October 27, 2021, from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rhododendron/rhododendron-auriculatum.htm
