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Description
Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum, also known as Catawba Rhododendron, is a beautiful flowering shrub native to the Appalachian Mountains in southeastern United States. It is a member of the Ericaceae family and is one of the most popular Rhododendron species grown in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum is a large, evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 feet in height and width. It has dark green, leathery leaves that are 4-8 inches long and 2-4 inches wide. The flowers are pink to lavender in color and are borne in large, dome-shaped clusters that can be up to 8 inches across. The blooms appear in late spring to early summer and are highly fragrant.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. The shrub should be planted in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. It requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, but the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged. Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum is prone to several pests and diseases, including lace bugs, spider mites, and root rot. It is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides and fungicides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum is native to the Appalachian Mountains in southeastern United States, where it grows in acidic soils in moist, shaded areas. It is commonly found in woodland areas, along streams, and in mountain valleys.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum tolerate full sun?
A: No, this shrub prefers morning sun and afternoon shade.
Q: How often should I water my Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum?
A: Water the shrub regularly, especially during the growing season, but do not allow the soil to become waterlogged.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize my Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum?
A: Fertilize the shrub in the spring with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Rhododendron Catawbiense English Roseum?
A: It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron maximum
- Rhododendron ponticum
- Rhododendron yakushimanum
- Rhododendron mucronulatum
References
- “Rhododendron catawbiense.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e400
- “Catawba Rhododendron.” Clemson Cooperative Extension. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/catawba-rhododendron/
- “Growing Rhododendrons and Azaleas.” University of Minnesota Extension. https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/growing-rhododendrons-and-azaleas
