Family
Ericaceae
Botanical Name
Rhododendron( Carolinianum Group)
Plant Common Name
Carolinianum Rhododendron
General Description
A parent of many well-known cultivars (including the PJM hybrids), these small to medium-sized rhododendrons are outstanding ornamental plants in their own right. They are selections of a distinct race of Rhododendron minus var. minus from the the mountains of western North Carolina. These evergreen shrubs bear rounded trusses of rosy purple, pink, or white flowers from early to mid-spring. The wide-flaring funnel-shaped blooms often have a contrasting greenish-yellow blotch on their upper lobe. The upright, dense to open plants have medium-sized oval deep green leaves with rust-brown undersides. The leaves roll up tight in severe cold or drought.
Like most rhododendrons, members of the Carolinianum Group favor chilly winters, moderate summers, partial shade, and well-drained, humus-rich, acid soil. Plant them shallowly and mulch well to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Do any necessary pruning directly after the flowers fade, before new flower buds form. These plants work beautifully in shrub borders, foundation plantings, and natrualistic woodland gardens. Try to site them where they have room to grow to full size.
Special Characteristics
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Bark Texture
Smooth
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Usage
Feature Plant, Foundation, Hedges, Mixed Border, Topiary / Bonsai / Espalier
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Sharp or Has Thorns
No
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Invasive
No
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Self-Sowing
Yes
