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Description
Rhododendron Canadense, commonly known as the Canadian Rhododendron, is a deciduous shrub that is native to North America. It is a member of the heath family and is known for its beautiful, showy flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The flowers are typically pink or purple in color and have a trumpet-like shape. The leaves of the plant are dark green and glossy, and they turn a vibrant red or orange in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
The Canadian Rhododendron can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has a rounded shape with dense foliage and a smooth bark. The flowers grow in clusters and are about 1 inch in diameter. The leaves are elliptical in shape and about 2 to 4 inches long. They have a smooth texture and are arranged in an alternate pattern on the stems. The plant has a shallow root system, and the roots are easily damaged by disturbance.
Care Guide
The Canadian Rhododendron requires moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization should be done in the spring with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer. The plant should be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape and promote new growth. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
The Canadian Rhododendron is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Canadian Rhododendron is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause distortion and discoloration of the leaves.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and defoliation of the plant.
- Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant.
- Lace bugs: These pests feed on the underside of the leaves and can cause discoloration and a stippled appearance.
Habitat
The Canadian Rhododendron is native to North America and can be found in wetlands, bogs, and swamps. It prefers moist, acidic soil and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Canadian Rhododendron?
A: The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune my Canadian Rhododendron?
A: The plant should be pruned after flowering to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Q: Can the Canadian Rhododendron tolerate full sun?
A: The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun if the soil is kept moist.
Q: What pH range does the Canadian Rhododendron prefer?
A: The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron Macrophyllum
- Rhododendron Maximum
- Rhododendron Catawbiense
- Rhododendron Ponticum
References
- “Rhododendron Canadense.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed April 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=261884&isprofile=0&.
- “Rhododendron Canadense.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed April 20, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14860/Rhododendron-canadense/Details.
- “Rhododendron Canadense.” Plant Finder. Accessed April 20, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2101/canadian-rhododendron/.
