Rhododendron (dauricum) 'APRIL SNOW' dahurian rhododendron


Rhododendron
Dauricum rhododendron is a very hardy species native to a large area ranging from Altai Mountains (Easter Siberia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia) to East Asia (Japan, Sakhalin Island). It is less demanding as to soil conditions and withstands open sites and very low temperatures (down to -32°C). It is also one of the parents of a very popular early blooming variety called Praecox.April Snow is an American variety of rhododendron dauricum with pure white double flowers. They open early in the season – often in late March. Leaves are semi-evergreen, small, elliptic, mid green. It grows at medium slow rate forming a compact, upright shrub. It thrives in full sun or part shade.
Rhododendron roots are shallow, spreading to sides in search for nutrients. Never plant them too deep. The soil has to be acidic (pH 4.5-5.5), rich in humus, cool and always moist. Ideal soil mixture is peat with lime-free, light garden soil topped with leave-mould. Fully hardy to abt. -30°C (USDA zone 5).
Last update 29-01-2015