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Description
Rhododendron Caucasicum, also known as Caucasian Rhododendron, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the Caucasus Mountains of Russia and Georgia. This plant can grow up to 5 meters tall and 4 meters wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Caucasicum has long, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green in color, and it produces gorgeous pink or purple flowers that bloom in the late spring or early summer. The flowers have a bell-shaped appearance and are typically around 5 centimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Rhododendron Caucasicum thrives, it’s important to follow these care guidelines:- Water: This plant needs to be watered regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Be sure to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Rhododendron Caucasicum should be fertilized once a year with a slow-release fertilizer designed for acid-loving plants.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is not naturally acidic, you can amend it with peat moss or sulfur.- Sunlight: Rhododendron Caucasicum thrives in partial shade, so be sure to plant it in an area that receives dappled sunlight throughout the day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Caucasicum is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Rhododendron borers: These insects can bore into the stems of the plant, causing damage and even death. If you notice holes in the stems, or sawdust-like material near the base of the plant, you may have a borer infestation.- Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of the plant to rot, leading to stunted growth, wilting, and eventual death. To prevent this disease, be sure to plant Rhododendron Caucasicum in well-draining soil.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown or black spots to form on the leaves of the plant. To prevent leaf spot, be sure to keep the foliage dry and free of debris.
Habitat
Rhododendron Caucasicum is native to the Caucasus Mountains of Russia and Georgia, where it grows in moist, forested areas. This plant prefers cool, humid conditions and acidic soil.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Rhododendron Caucasicum?
A: The best time to plant Rhododendron Caucasicum is in the fall or early spring, when the soil is cool and moist.
Q: How often should I prune my Rhododendron Caucasicum?
A: This plant should be pruned after it has finished flowering in the late spring or early summer. You can remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.
Q: Can Rhododendron Caucasicum grow in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container, but it will require more frequent watering and fertilization than if it were planted in the ground.
Q: Is Rhododendron Caucasicum poisonous to pets?
A: Yes, all parts of this plant are toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
Related Plants
If you’re interested in Rhododendron Caucasicum, you may also like these similar plants:- Rhododendron ‘Nova Zembla’- Rhododendron ‘English Roseum’- Rhododendron ‘Pink Pearl’- Rhododendron ‘PJM Elite’
References
– “Rhododendron Caucasicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=266322&isprofile=0&.- “Caucasian Rhododendron.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18453/rhododendron-caucasicum/details.
