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Description
Rhododendron Hirsutum, commonly known as Alpine Rose, is a shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the European Alps and the Pyrenees and grows at high altitudes of up to 3000 meters. The plant has dark green leaves that are hairy on the underside and produces stunning pink or purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Hirsutum is a dense, bushy shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide. Its leaves are dark green and hairy on the underside, and they grow up to 5 cm long. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and bloom in clusters of 5 to 10. They are pink or purple in color and have a pleasant fragrance.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Hirsutum requires well-drained soil that is acidic, with a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5. It needs regular watering, especially during the growing season, but the soil should not be too wet. The plant requires fertilization in the spring and fall, with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen. It prefers partial shade, but it can tolerate full sun if the soil is moist. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Hirsutum is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including bud blast, leaf spot, and rust. It can also be attacked by various insects, such as spider mites and aphids. Proper care and maintenance can prevent these issues, including removing infected plant parts and controlling pests with insecticides or natural remedies.
Habitat
Rhododendron Hirsutum is native to the European Alps and the Pyrenees, where it grows in alpine meadows and rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial shade. The plant is also grown in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental shrub.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Hirsutum tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, the plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Q: How often should I fertilize Rhododendron Hirsutum?
A: The plant requires fertilization in the spring and fall, with a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen.
Q: What is the ideal pH for the soil of Rhododendron Hirsutum?
A: The plant requires well-drained soil that is acidic, with a pH of around 4.5 to 5.5.
Q: How tall does Rhododendron Hirsutum grow?
A: The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron Catawbiense
- Rhododendron Maximum
- Rhododendron Ponticum
References
- “Rhododendron Hirsutum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c251.
- “Rhododendron Hirsutum.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/7824/Rhododendron-hirsutum/Details.
- “Alpine Rose.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/alpine-rose/alpine-rose-care.htm.
