Rhododendron japonicum (cream)

The homeland of the Rhododendron molle subsp. japonicum is Japan. Grows in the mountains, on open slopes.

 

One of the most decorative deciduous rhododendrons, found on the sunny slopes of the mountains of the island of Honshu, where it grows as a deciduous, strongly branched shrub up to 2 m tall. Young shoots are glabrous or covered with bristly, silvery hairs. Thin, oblong-lanceolate leaves with a wedge-shaped base (10 x 4 cm). When unfolded, sometimes softly pubescent, glazed on both sides. In autumn, the leaves turn bright, orange-red tones. The flowers are fragrant, bell-shaped, up to 8 cm in diameter, 6-12 in brushes. Blossom before the appearance of leaves or simultaneously with them. In terms of decorativeness during the flowering period, it has no equal in the middle lane.

 

Photophilous, winter-hardy. Propagates well by seeds and cuttings. Can serve as a decoration for any garden or park. During flowering, lasting up to 30 days, it resembles a bright bonfire from afar. It is no less decorative during the autumn coloration of leaves. Deserves widespread use in landscape gardening. Recommended for single and group landings. Effective in combination with other rhododendrons against the background of dark-leaved rocks. In culture since 1861.

 

USDA Hardiness Zone (°F): 4b (-25 to -20 °F)