Contents
Description
Rhododendron Agastum, also known as the Dwarf Rhododendron, is a small evergreen shrub that is native to the Himalayas. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet with a spread of 2-3 feet. The plant produces clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, purple, and white, which bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Agastum has small, glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and about 1 inch long. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and typically about 1 inch in diameter. They grow in clusters of 3-10 and come in shades of pink, red, purple, and white. The plant has a compact, rounded growth habit and typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet with a spread of 2-3 feet.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Agastum prefers moist, well-drained soil that is acidic (pH of 4.5-5.5). It should be watered regularly, but not over-watered, and fertilized with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer in the spring. The plant should be grown in partial shade to protect it from direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. Rhododendron Agastum is hardy in USDA Zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Agastum is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including lace bugs, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Signs of infestation include yellowing leaves, stippling, and distorted growth. To control pests, spray the plant with a solution of neem oil, insecticidal soap, or horticultural oil. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Rhododendron Agastum is native to the Himalayas, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of 10,000-12,000 feet. It prefers cool, moist conditions with well-drained soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Rhododendron Agastum be fertilized?
A: Rhododendron Agastum should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer.
Q: What pH level does Rhododendron Agastum prefer?
A: Rhododendron Agastum prefers soil that is acidic, with a pH of 4.5-5.5.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect Rhododendron Agastum?
A: Rhododendron Agastum is susceptible to lace bugs, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Q: Where is Rhododendron Agastum native to?
A: Rhododendron Agastum is native to the Himalayas.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron yakushimanum
- Rhododendron dauricum
- Rhododendron impeditum
- Rhododendron racemosum
References
- “Rhododendron Agastum,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed September 23, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=267380&isprofile=0&basic=Rhododendron%20agastum.
- “Dwarf Rhododendron,” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed September 23, 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12629/rhododendron-agastum/details.
