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Description
Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart is a stunning evergreen shrub that boasts large clusters of funnel-shaped, pale pink flowers in late spring. This plant is a hybrid of Rhododendron catawbiense and Rhododendron maximum, and was first introduced in 1851. It is named after the wife of the Scottish politician Sir William Schaw Cathcart.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are up to 8 inches long. The plant typically grows to a height of 6-8 feet and a width of 8-10 feet. In late spring, it produces large clusters of pale pink, funnel-shaped flowers that are up to 4 inches across. The flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Water: Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during periods of drought.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just before new growth begins.Soil: Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart prefers acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. If your soil is not acidic enough, you can add sulfur to lower the pH.Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in areas with direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and damage the plant.Hardiness Zones: Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Treat aphids with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause damage to the leaves of the plant, leaving them yellowed and curled. Treat spider mites with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in moist, acidic soils in shaded areas such as woodlands and stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight.Q: How often should I prune Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart?
A: Prune the plant lightly after it has finished flowering to maintain its shape. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can damage the plant.Q: Can Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, this plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can tolerate cold temperatures.Q: How often should I fertilize Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in early spring, just before new growth begins.
Related Plants
Here are a few related plants to Rhododendron Lady Eleanor Cathcart:
- Rhododendron ‘Nova Zembla’
- Rhododendron ‘Percy Wiseman’
- Rhododendron ‘Pink Pearl’
- Rhododendron ‘Purple Passion’
References
- “Rhododendron ‘Lady Eleanor Cathcart’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=250985.
- “Rhododendron ‘Lady Eleanor Cathcart’.” Plant Lust. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://plantlust.com/plants/23578/rhododendron-lady-eleanor-cathcart/.
- “Rhododendron ‘Lady Eleanor Cathcart’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10710/Rhododendron-Lady-Eleanor-Cathcart/Details.
