Rhododendron ferrugineum
Rhododendron ferrugineum · Ericaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around rhododendron ferrugineum and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Alpine Rhododendron
- Family
- Ericaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- June to August, bright pink to red flowers
- Adult size
- 0.5 to 1.5 m in height
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Origin
- Alps and Pyrenees
- Soil type
- Acidic, well-drained, rich in organic matter
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing and flowering periods to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. Prefer rainwater or demineralised water, as the plant appreciates acidic soil.
Light exposure
Place the rhododendron in partial shade or dappled light. Intense direct sunlight can scorch the foliage and reduce flowering. In mountain regions, it tolerates more sun thanks to ambient humidity.
Soil
Prepare an acidic substrate with ericaceous compost or specialized potting mix for acid-loving plants. Enrich with well-decomposed compost and ensure excellent drainage to prevent root suffocation.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers after flowering to encourage branching. Light pruning after flowering is sufficient to maintain a compact shape. Avoid severe pruning which may compromise the following year's flowering.
Fertilizer
Apply a specific fertilizer for acid-loving plants in spring, during the active growth phase. Moderate feeding is sufficient; excess fertilizer can reduce hardiness and flowering.
Diseases and pests
Watch for powdery mildew in humid, poorly ventilated conditions. Scale insects and spider mites can appear in dry indoor environments. Avoid stagnant excessive moisture which promotes root rot.
Did you know?
Rhododendron ferrugineum is an endemic species of alpine and Pyrenean mountains, adapted to extreme high-altitude conditions. Its name 'ferrugineum' means 'rust-coloured', referring to the underside of its leaves covered with tiny reddish scales that provide protection against evaporation in high mountains. This remarkable strategy makes it a precious plant for gardeners in mountain or northern climates.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.