Rhododendron Temple Belle

Description

Rhododendron Temple Belle is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is one of the many hybrid Rhododendrons that originated from the United States. The plant is famous for its showy, large pink flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer. The flowers have a trumpet shape and a yellow throat. The leaves of the Rhododendron Temple Belle are dark green and glossy, and they remain on the plant throughout the year.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Rhododendron Temple Belle is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The plant has a dense, mounding habit and forms a beautiful rounded shape. The leaves of the Rhododendron Temple Belle are elliptical and measure about 4 inches long and 2 inches wide. They have a smooth margin and a glossy surface. The flowers of the Rhododendron Temple Belle are large, measuring up to 4 inches across. They are pink and have a yellow throat. The flowers are arranged in a cluster at the end of the branches and bloom in late spring and early summer.

Care Guide

Rhododendron Temple Belle is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:

• Water: The plant needs regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during the hot summer months. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release, acid-loving fertilizer to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
• Soil: The Rhododendron Temple Belle prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be acidic with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves.
• Hardiness Zones: The Rhododendron Temple Belle is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 6 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Rhododendron Temple Belle is susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

• Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl and deform. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the undersides of the leaves and cause them to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control them.
• Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet soil. Avoid overwatering and make sure the soil is well-draining.

Habitat

The Rhododendron Temple Belle is native to the United States and is commonly found in the eastern part of the country. The plant prefers to grow in moist, well-draining soil in partial shade to full shade. It is often planted in gardens and used as a landscaping plant.

Question and Answer

Q: Can I grow Rhododendron Temple Belle in a container?

A: Yes, you can grow Rhododendron Temple Belle in a container. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and use a well-draining potting mix.

Q: When is the best time to prune Rhododendron Temple Belle?

A: The best time to prune Rhododendron Temple Belle is after it finishes blooming in the late spring or early summer.

Q: Does Rhododendron Temple Belle attract bees?

A: Yes, Rhododendron Temple Belle attracts bees and other pollinators with its showy flowers.

Q: Can I propagate Rhododendron Temple Belle from cuttings?

A: Yes, Rhododendron Temple Belle can be propagated from cuttings. Take a cutting in the summer and root it in a well-draining soil mix.

Related Plants

• Rhododendron Catawbiense
• Rhododendron Maximum
• Rhododendron Nova Zembla
• Rhododendron Purple Passion

References

• “Rhododendron ‘Temple Belle’ Plant Care & Growing Information.” American Meadows, 19 Nov. 2021, www.americanmeadows.com/products/rhododendron-temple-belle.
• “Rhododendron ‘Temple Belle’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280712&isprofile=0&basic=Rhododendron%20temple.
• “Rhododendron Temple Belle.” Monrovia, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/2513/temple-belle-rhododendron/.