Contents
Description
Rhododendron Lapponicum is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is commonly found in alpine regions, particularly in northern Europe, and grows up to 10 cm tall. The plant has small, dark green leaves that are obovate in shape and leathery in texture. The flowers are bell-shaped and usually pink or purple in color, measuring up to 1.5 cm in diameter. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Lapponicum has a small, compact growth habit and grows up to 10 cm tall. Its dark green leaves are obovate in shape and leathery in texture, measuring up to 1 cm in length. The flowers are bell-shaped and usually pink or purple in color, measuring up to 1.5 cm in diameter. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and produces copious amounts of flowers.
Care Guide
To grow Rhododendron Lapponicum successfully, follow these care instructions:
Water
Rhododendron Lapponicum prefers moist soil, so water the plant regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering or letting the soil dry out completely, as this can cause root damage.
Fertilization
Fertilize Rhododendron Lapponicum with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Do not over-fertilize, as this can cause leaf burn and reduce flowering.
Soil
Rhododendron Lapponicum prefers well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. Amend the soil with peat moss or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Sunlight
Rhododendron Lapponicum prefers partial to full shade and does not tolerate direct sunlight or hot, dry conditions. Plant it in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
Rhododendron Lapponicum is hardy in USDA zones 2 to 6.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Lapponicum is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:
Pests
– Spider mites- Aphids- Lace bugs
Diseases
– Phytophthora root rot- Rhododendron wilt- Powdery mildew
Habitat
Rhododendron Lapponicum is native to alpine regions in northern Europe, particularly in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. It grows in rocky, well-drained soils in subalpine and alpine habitats, often in association with other alpine plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Lapponicum tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Yes, Rhododendron Lapponicum is hardy in USDA zones 2 to 6 and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Q: When does Rhododendron Lapponicum bloom?
A: Rhododendron Lapponicum blooms from late spring to early summer.
Q: What kind of soil does Rhododendron Lapponicum prefer?
A: Rhododendron Lapponicum prefers well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Rhododendron Lapponicum?
A: Spider mites, aphids, and lace bugs are common pests, while Phytophthora root rot, Rhododendron wilt, and powdery mildew are common diseases.
Related Plants
Other species of Rhododendron include:- Rhododendron ferrugineum- Rhododendron hirsutum- Rhododendron maximum- Rhododendron ponticum
References
– “Rhododendron Lapponicum” by Alpine Garden Society- “Rhododendron Lapponicum (L.) Wahlenb.” by Plants of the World Online- “Rhododendron Lapponicum” by Royal Horticultural Society
