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Description
Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum, commonly known as the Scarlet Rhododendron, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the heath family, Ericaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia and is known for its large, showy, scarlet-red flowers. The flowers bloom in late spring and early summer and are bell-shaped with a diameter of around 2 inches. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide and has dark-green, lance-shaped leaves that turn bronze in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
The Scarlet Rhododendron has large, showy, scarlet-red flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are bell-shaped with a diameter of around 2 inches and are arranged in clusters. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide and has dark-green, lance-shaped leaves that turn bronze in the fall. The leaves are around 4 inches long and have a smooth texture.
Care Guide
To care for the Scarlet Rhododendron, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to plant it in the appropriate hardiness zone.Water: The plant requires a moderate amount of water, with the soil being kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.Soil: The plant prefers acidic soil that is well-drained and rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade, with some morning sunlight being beneficial.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Scarlet Rhododendron is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including:Pests: Lace bugs, spider mites, and weevils can all damage the plant.Diseases: Leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot can all affect the plant.
Habitat
The Scarlet Rhododendron is native to Europe and Asia and is typically found in woodland areas, heathlands, and mountainsides. It prefers acidic soil and partial shade to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum?
A: The best time to plant the Scarlet Rhododendron is in the fall or spring.
Q: Can Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers but will require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum be pruned?
A: The plant should be lightly pruned after it has finished blooming in the summer.
Q: What is the ideal pH range for the soil for Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum?
A: The ideal pH range for the soil is between 4.5 and 5.5.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron Catawbiense
- Rhododendron Maximum
- Rhododendron Mucronulatum
References
- “Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b716.
- “Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/161784/Rhododendron-coccineum-Speciosum/Details.
- “Rhododendron Coccineum Speciosum.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/3189/.
