Rhodothamnus

Description

Rhodothamnus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Ericaceae. It consists of only one species, Rhodothamnus chamaecistus, which is commonly known as dwarf rhododendron. This evergreen shrub is native to the high mountains of central and southern Europe, where it grows at altitudes of up to 3000m. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of up to 60cm and a spread of 90cm.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The leaves of Rhodothamnus are small, leathery, and dark green in color. They are arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. The flowers are small and pink or purple in color, and they bloom in early summer. The plant has a bushy habit and grows slowly, making it an ideal plant for rock gardens or containers.

Care Guide

• Water: Rhodothamnus prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during the growing season.
• Fertilization: Fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer in spring and again in midsummer.
• Soil: Rhodothamnus prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. Use a soil mix specifically formulated for acid-loving plants.
• Sunlight: Rhodothamnus prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it benefits from afternoon shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Rhodothamnus is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Rhodothamnus is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
• Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly-draining soil. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil has good drainage.

Habitat

Rhodothamnus is native to the high mountains of central and southern Europe, where it grows in rocky, alpine environments. It is adapted to cold temperatures, high altitudes, and low rainfall. In cultivation, it is commonly used in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and containers.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Rhodothamnus tolerate full sun?

A: Rhodothamnus can tolerate full sun, but it prefers partial shade in hotter climates.

Q: How often should I fertilize Rhodothamnus?

A: Fertilize Rhodothamnus with a slow-release fertilizer in spring and again in midsummer.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rhodothamnus?

A: Rhodothamnus is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.

Q: How often should I water Rhodothamnus?

A: Water Rhodothamnus regularly, especially during the growing season, and ensure that the soil is moist but well-drained.

Related Plants

• Rhododendron
• Kalmia
• Leucothoe
• Andromeda

References

• “Rhodothamnus chamaecistus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287792.
• “Rhodothamnus chamaecistus.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com/rhodothamnus-chamaecistus.
• “Dwarf Rhododendron.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/58815/rhodothamnus-chamaecistus/details.