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Description
Rhododendron Exquisitum, commonly known as the Tibetan rhododendron, is a species of flowering plant in the family Ericaceae. It is a small evergreen shrub that can reach up to 2-3 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. This plant is native to the Himalayan region of Tibet and China, where it grows in alpine and subalpine areas. Rhododendron Exquisitum is highly valued for its beautiful flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are bell-shaped, lavender-pink, and have darker spots on the upper lobes. The leaves are elliptic, dark green, and glossy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
| Species | Exquisitum |
Appearance
Rhododendron Exquisitum is a small evergreen shrub that grows up to 2-3 feet in height and 3-4 feet in width. The leaves are elliptic, dark green, and glossy. The flowers are bell-shaped, lavender-pink, and have darker spots on the upper lobes. They bloom in late spring to early summer, and the entire plant is covered with flowers. The bark is smooth, grayish-brown, and peels off in thin strips. The roots are shallow and fibrous.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Exquisitum requires specific care to thrive. Here are some care tips:Water: Rhododendron Exquisitum prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in spring with a slow-release, acidic fertilizer. Do not over-fertilize, as this can burn the roots.Soil: Rhododendron Exquisitum prefers acidic, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with peat moss or compost before planting.Sunlight: Rhododendron Exquisitum prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.Hardiness Zones: Rhododendron Exquisitum is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Exquisitum is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:Pests: Spider mites, aphids, and thrips can infest Rhododendron Exquisitum. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.Diseases: Rhododendron Exquisitum is susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Avoid overwatering and improve air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Rhododendron Exquisitum is native to the Himalayan region of Tibet and China, where it grows in alpine and subalpine areas. It prefers cool, moist climates and acidic soil. In its natural habitat, it grows alongside other alpine plants such as primroses, gentians, and saxifrages.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Exquisitum tolerate full sun?
A: No, Rhododendron Exquisitum prefers partial shade to full shade.Q: How often should I fertilize Rhododendron Exquisitum?
A: Fertilize the plant in spring with a slow-release, acidic fertilizer.Q: What are some common pests that can infest Rhododendron Exquisitum?
A: Spider mites, aphids, and thrips can infest Rhododendron Exquisitum.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rhododendron Exquisitum?
A: Rhododendron Exquisitum is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Rhododendron Exquisitum:
- Rhododendron Catawbiense
- Rhododendron Maximum
- Rhododendron Ponticum
- Rhododendron Yakushimanum
References
- “Rhododendron Exquisitum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a174.
- “Rhododendron Exquisitum.” Plant Information Online. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://plantinfo.umn.edu/node/1433259.
- “Rhododendron Exquisitum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 31, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9125/Rhododendron-exquisitum/Details.
