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Description
Rhododendron Luteum, also known as the Yellow Azalea or Pontic Azalea, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, and is widely cultivated for its fragrant yellow flowers. The plant can grow up to 4 meters tall and has a spread of 3 meters. Its leaves are elliptical in shape and can grow up to 10 cm long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Rhododendron |
Appearance
Rhododendron Luteum produces fragrant yellow flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are funnel-shaped and can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The plant’s leaves are dark green and have a leathery texture. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful yellow color. The bark of the Rhododendron Luteum is smooth and gray, and the plant has a bushy growth habit.
Care Guide
Rhododendron Luteum requires moist, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun and does best in hardiness zones 5-8. When watering the plant, it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Rhododendron Luteum is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including lace bugs, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing proper care and maintaining good sanitation practices. If an infestation occurs, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Rhododendron Luteum is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, and can be found growing in wooded areas, along streams, and in mountainous regions. The plant prefers acidic soil and partial shade, and is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Rhododendron Luteum grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Rhododendron Luteum can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: How often should I water my Rhododendron Luteum?
A: You should water your Rhododendron Luteum regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: What kind of soil does Rhododendron Luteum prefer?
A: Rhododendron Luteum prefers moist, well-draining soil that is high in organic matter.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Rhododendron Luteum?
A: The best time to fertilize Rhododendron Luteum is in the spring with a slow-release, acid-forming fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Rhododendron ‘Gibraltar’
- Rhododendron ‘Golden Lights’
- Rhododendron ‘Hino-crimson’
- Rhododendron ‘Nova Zembla’
References
- “Rhododendron Luteum”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b160
- “Rhododendron Luteum”. Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10033/i-Rhododendron-luteum-i/Details
- “Rhododendron Luteum”. The Spruce. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/rhododendron-luteum-pontic-azalea-3269365
