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Description
Rhododendron Crest is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rhododendron genus. This plant is known for its stunning clusters of pink and purple flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. It has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide. This plant is native to North America, specifically in the Pacific Northwest region.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Crest has glossy, dark green leaves that are leathery and elliptical in shape. The leaves are about 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. The flowers of this plant are trumpet-shaped and can be pink, purple, or a combination of both. They grow in clusters and can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Crest is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
Water: This plant likes to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water it thoroughly once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization: Feed Rhododendron Crest with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and late summer. Use a fertilizer that’s specifically formulated for acid-loving plants.
Soil: This plant prefers acidic soil that’s well-draining. If your soil is too alkaline, you can amend it with sulfur or peat moss.
Sunlight: Rhododendron Crest prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight, as this can damage its leaves.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Crest is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones:
Aphids: These small insects can cluster on the undersides of leaves and suck the sap out of the plant. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaves to yellow and fall off. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and keeping the plant’s leaves dry.
Habitat
Rhododendron Crest is native to North America, specifically in the Pacific Northwest region. It grows in moist, acidic soil in shaded areas such as forests, woodland edges, and stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Rhododendron Crest?
A: Water Rhododendron Crest thoroughly once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Can Rhododendron Crest be grown in full sun?
A: No, Rhododendron Crest prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Rhododendron Crest?
A: Use a slow-release fertilizer that’s specifically formulated for acid-loving plants.
Q: How tall does Rhododendron Crest grow?
A: Rhododendron Crest can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron ‘Nova Zembla’
- Rhododendron ‘Maruschka’
- Rhododendron ‘PJM’
- Rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’
References
- “Rhododendron Crest.” Monrovia. Accessed 23 Mar 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/195/rhododendron-crest/.
- “Rhododendron Crest.” American Rhododendron Society. Accessed 23 Mar 2021. https://www.rhododendron.org/descriptionH_new.asp?ID=200.
- “Rhododendron Crest.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 Mar 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275472.
