Rhododendron ponticum or Common rhododendron

Care of the shrub Rhododendron ponticum or Common rhododendron

The genus Rhododendron, family Ericaceae, includes more than 1000 species of shrubs and trees native to Asia, Europe, and North America. Some species are: Rhododendron ponticum, Rhododendron indicum, Rhododendron maximum, Rhododendron arboreum, Rhododendron tomentosum, Rhododendron ferrugineum.

Common names: Common rhododendron, Pontic rhododendron. This species is native to the Caucasus and the Iberian Peninsula.

They are compact evergreen shrubs that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height. The leaves have an oblong-lanceolate shape and are bright green on the upper surface and light green on the underside. The attractive large flowers appear in groups and can be purple, red, white, or lilac, depending on the variety. They bloom in spring.

They are used in bushy groups, as isolated specimens and in large pots for patios and terraces, as indoor and greenhouse plants.

Rhododendron ponticum needs semi-shade exposure in the garden and dimmed light indoors; it is important that they have good ventilation.

The soil must be acidic; for example a mixture of chestnut soil, peat and forest soil. The transplant, if necessary, is done in early spring.

Water regularly so that the soil is always moist (never water); they do not withstand drought. In summer it is advisable to spray the leaves periodically with lime-free water (indoors).

Before and during flowering it's advisable to fertilize with mineral fertilizer every 15 days. In autumn, fertilize with compost.

They do not need pruning but the branches can be trimmed slightly after flowering to keep them compact.

They can be attacked by mites and aphids if they suffer from drought or ventilation is not adequate.

They are propagated by cuttings and by layering in early summer.