Scientific Name
Rhododendron ferrugineum L.
Common Name(s)
Alpenrose, Snow Rose, Rusty-leaved Alpenrose, Alpine Rose
Synonym(s)
Azalea ferruginea, Chamaerhododendron ferrugineum, Plinthocroma ferrugineum
Scientific Classification
Family: Ericaceae
Subfamily: Ericoideae
Tribe: Rhodoreae
Genus: Rhododendron
Flower
Color: Pinkish-red
Bloom Time: Summer
Description
Rhododendron ferrugineum is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 3.3 feet (1 m) tall and produces clusters of pinkish-red bell-shaped flowers throughout the summer. The underside of the leaves is covered in rust-brown spots, which give the species its scientific name.
How to Grow and Care
Once properly located in the planting bed, water thoroughly and cover with an organic mulch, which will break down to supply nutrients as it decomposes. A pine bark covering applied at 2 inches (5 cm) is thought to inhibit fungi that cause root rot. Do not mulch with peat moss, as it is difficult to rewet after it has dried out. Proper mulching will decrease the need for future care.
Rhododendron care includes yearly fertilization, best applied in fall, following a hard freeze, or in early spring. Use fertilizer for acid-loving plants, such as organic cottonseed meal. The organic material you have worked into the soil previously will break down to provide some of the necessary nutrients.
Consistently moist soil is needed for proper care, but too much water creates problems for the growing Rhododendron. When leaves curl and twist, this indicates that water is required immediately. The Rhododendron bush should not be allowed to go through the stress of wilting.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Rhododendron.
Origin
Rhododendron ferrugineum is distributed in the Alps, Pyrenees, Jura, and the northern Apennines.
Links
- Back to genus Rhododendron
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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