Contents
Description
Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is a hybrid of Rhododendron Catawbiense and Rhododendron maximum, both native to the eastern United States. It is a popular ornamental plant known for its stunning pinkish-purple flowers and dark green foliage. It can grow up to 8 feet tall and 10 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for landscaping and gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans has dark green, leathery leaves that are 4 to 8 inches long and 2 to 4 inches wide. The leaves are evergreen, meaning they stay green throughout the year. The flowers are pinkish-purple and bloom in May and June. Each flower cluster can have up to 20 flowers, and each flower is around 2 inches wide.
Care Guide
Water: Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods.
Fertilization: Feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Avoid using a high-nitrogen fertilizer, as it can damage the plant.
Soil: The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
- Lacebugs
- Spider mites
- Phytophthora root rot
- Bud blast
To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the plant healthy and well-maintained. Remove any dead or damaged branches and leaves, and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans is native to the Appalachian Mountains in the eastern United States. It grows in moist, acidic soil in the understory of deciduous and coniferous forests. It prefers partial shade and cool temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: How do I prune Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans?
A: Prune the plant after it has finished blooming. Remove any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Q: How do I propagate Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans?
A: Propagate the plant using stem cuttings in the summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron maximum
- Rhododendron Catawbiense Grandiflorum
- Rhododendron ‘Nova Zembla’
References
- “Rhododendron catawbiense ‘Roseum Elegans’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 24 Sept. 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=n560
- “Rhododendron catawbiense Roseum Elegans.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 24 Sept. 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/21008/Rhododendron-catawbiense-Roseum-Elegans/Details
- “Rhododendron Catawbiense Roseum Elegans.” Plant Database. Accessed 24 Sept. 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/rhododendron-catawbiense-roseum-elegans
