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Description
Rhododendron Viscosum is a deciduous shrub that is native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Ericaceae family and is commonly known as swamp azalea or clammy azalea. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. The plant produces fragrant pink or white flowers that bloom in mid to late spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Viscosum has smooth, green leaves that are 1-3 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves turn red in the fall before dropping. The flowers are funnel-shaped and have a strong, sweet fragrance. They grow in clusters of 2-10 and are 1-2 inches wide. The plant blooms in mid to late spring and produces flowers for 2-4 weeks.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Viscosum requires moist, well-draining soil that is acidic (pH between 4.5-5.5). It should be planted in an area that receives partial shade to full sun. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. It should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a slow-release, acidic fertilizer. The plant is hardy in zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Viscosum is susceptible to lace bugs, spider mites, and root rot. Lace bugs and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring that the soil drains well and the plant is not overwatered.
Habitat
Rhododendron Viscosum is found in wetlands, bogs, and swamps throughout the eastern United States. It grows best in areas with high humidity and moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Viscosum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Rhododendron Viscosum can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Rhododendron Viscosum be fertilized?
A: Rhododendron Viscosum should be fertilized in the spring and fall with a slow-release, acidic fertilizer.
Q: Can Rhododendron Viscosum tolerate full sun?
A: Rhododendron Viscosum can tolerate full sun, but it grows best in partial shade to full sun.
Q: How often should Rhododendron Viscosum be watered?
A: Rhododendron Viscosum should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron atlanticum
- Rhododendron calendulaceum
- Rhododendron canescens
- Rhododendron flammeum
- Rhododendron periclymenoides
References
- “Rhododendron Viscosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282165
- “Rhododendron Viscosum.” North Carolina State University Extension. Accessed 21 May 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/rhododendron-viscosum/
- “Rhododendron Viscosum.” United States Department of Agriculture. Accessed 21 May 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=RHVI2
