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Description
Rehderodendron Macrocarpum, commonly known as the bigfruit rehderodendron, is a deciduous shrub native to China. It belongs to the Ericaceae family and is prized for its large, showy flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for borders, hedges, and specimen plantings.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rehderodendron |
Appearance
The bigfruit rehderodendron has large, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color, turning red or orange in the fall. The plant produces clusters of pink or white, bell-shaped flowers that are up to 3 inches across, followed by reddish-brown fruit that can be up to 1.5 inches in diameter. The bark of the shrub is smooth and gray, and the branches are slender and arching.
Care Guide
The bigfruit rehderodendron prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires regular watering, especially during dry spells, and benefits from a layer of mulch to help retain moisture. The plant should be fertilized in the spring and again in mid-summer with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. It prefers partial shade to full sun and is hardy in zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The bigfruit rehderodendron is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It may also be affected by leaf spot or powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. Regular pruning and good air circulation can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The bigfruit rehderodendron is native to China and can be found growing in mountainous regions at elevations of up to 4000 feet. It prefers cool, moist climates and is often grown as an ornamental shrub in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my bigfruit rehderodendron?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, but be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize my bigfruit rehderodendron?
A: The plant should be fertilized in the spring and again in mid-summer with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
Q: Can the bigfruit rehderodendron be grown in full sun?
A: Yes, the plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
Q: What hardiness zones is the bigfruit rehderodendron suitable for?
A: The plant is hardy in zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Rehderodendron griffithianum
- Rehderodendron kwangtungense
- Rehderodendron macrophyllum
- Rehderodendron rubescens
References
- “Rehderodendron macrocarpum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b514.
- “Rehderodendron macrocarpum.” Plant Information Online. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1061188.
- “Rehderodendron macrocarpum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/172328/Rehderodendron-macrocarpum/Details.
