Contents
Description
Rhododendron Day Dream is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is a hybrid of Rhododendron catawbiense and Rhododendron dichroanthum. The plant is known for its stunning blooms that range from lavender-pink to deep pink. The flowers are large and showy, with a broad, funnel-shaped corolla that measures up to 4 inches in diameter.This plant blooms in mid-spring and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The foliage is evergreen and has a glossy, dark green color. The leaves are leathery and oblong-shaped, measuring up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Day Dream has large, showy flowers that bloom in mid-spring. The flowers are funnel-shaped and range from lavender-pink to deep pink. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide, with evergreen foliage that has a glossy, dark green color. The leaves are oblong-shaped and measure up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Day Dream requires specific care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to take care of this beautiful plant:Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in late summer with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Plant Rhododendron Day Dream in well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Rhododendron Day Dream is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Day Dream is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the underside of leaves and cause distortion and yellowing of the foliage.Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves.Phytophthora Root Rot: This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant.Bud Blast: This disease can cause the buds to turn brown and fail to open.Prevent these problems by keeping the plant healthy and well-maintained. Remove any dead or diseased plant material promptly and ensure proper watering and fertilization.
Habitat
Rhododendron Day Dream is native to Asia, specifically China and the Himalayas. It prefers cool temperatures and acidic soil. This plant can be grown in gardens as an ornamental plant or in pots as a houseplant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Day Dream grow in full sun?
A: No, this plant prefers partial shade to full shade.Q: How often should I fertilize Rhododendron Day Dream?
A: Fertilize the plant in early spring and again in late summer with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rhododendron Day Dream?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.Q: What pests and diseases affect Rhododendron Day Dream?
A: This plant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, Phytophthora root rot, and bud blast.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Rhododendron Day Dream:
- Rhododendron Nova Zembla
- Rhododendron Purple Passion
- Rhododendron Azurika
- Rhododendron Percy Wiseman
References
- “Rhododendron Day Dream.” American Rhododendron Society. https://www.rhododendron.org/descriptionS_new.asp?ID=290
- “Rhododendron ‘Day Dream’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=258141&isprofile=0&basic=Rhododendron%20&%20Azalea
- “Rhododendron Day Dream.” Gardenia.net. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/rhododendron-day-dream
