Contents
Description
Rhododendron Grosclaude, also known as Rhododendron Catawbiense ‘Grandiflorum,’ is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. This plant is native to the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States and is commonly used in landscaping due to its showy flowers and attractive foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Grosclaude can grow up to 6 feet tall and wide, with a dense and rounded shape. Its leaves are leathery, dark green, and elliptical in shape, with a length of 4-8 inches. This plant produces large, showy flowers in late spring or early summer, with colors ranging from pink to purple. The flowers are funnel-shaped and have a diameter of 2-3 inches.
Care Guide
Water: Rhododendron Grosclaude prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry periods. However, it is also important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: This plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, applied in early spring and late summer.
Soil: Rhododendron Grosclaude prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. It also needs well-draining soil, as it is susceptible to root rot.
Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade, as too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Rhododendron Grosclaude is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Grosclaude is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites
- Thrips
- Lace bugs
- Bud blast
- Root rot
Habitat
Rhododendron Grosclaude is native to the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States, where it grows in acidic soil in cool, moist environments. In landscaping, it is often used in woodland gardens, as a specimen plant, or in mixed borders.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Grosclaude tolerate full sun?
A: No, this plant prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I water Rhododendron Grosclaude?
A: This plant prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry periods. However, it is also important not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Rhododendron Grosclaude?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Q: What kind of soil does Rhododendron Grosclaude prefer?
A: This plant prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. It also needs well-draining soil, as it is susceptible to root rot.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron ‘Nova Zembla’
- Rhododendron ‘Purple Splendor’
- Rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’
- Rhododendron ‘Roseum Elegans’
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2003). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation, and uses. Stipes Publishing L.L.C.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Rhododendron catawbiense var. grandiflorum. Retrieved August 23, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=259956&isprofile=0&
