Rhododendron 'BARITON'

Rhododendrons are reliable, beautifully flowering, evergreen shrubs of variable origin: S.W. China, Himalayas, Northern America, and even Europe. The original species were hybridized several times for better performance so in the 1950´s there were more than 10,000 cultivars registered, and the number keeps increasing.

Before bass became the lowest male voice, baritone was supposed to be the one. Just like this rhododendron named Bariton for its colour depth. Bred by Hans Hachmann in 1974 it produces large, beautifully open wide flowers of dark purple blue colour with deep burgundy red, almost black blotch on the upper lip. Petal margins are nicely round and flat (not frilled) which makes a welcome change after so many tousled varieties. Blooming begins late in the spring season - in late May and continues until mid June. Evergreen leaves are large, leathery, mid green, ovate, and not very glossy. Bariton is a fast grower and needs very good, fertile soil, and sunny or only partially shaded location in order to exhibit a nice habit. Otherwise it can get leggy.

For a better looking plant dead-head where possible. The 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. Hardy to min. -25°C (USDA zone 6) but it is expected to take stronger frost.

Last update 26-01-2017