Rhododendron ponticum 'SILVER EDGE'

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.

Ponticum rhododendrons are cultivated mainly for their foliage. The leaves are narrow and elongated; Silver Edge variety even bears thin, white varigation on the leaf margins. It is very similar to another ponticum variety “Variegatum”, only the varigation is thinner and the flowers are a little bit more pink rather than lilac. It needs partial shade or shade as it dislikes direct sun, especially in winter. Flowers in June.

For richer flowering and growth dead-head where possible. Rhododendrons are low-maintenance shrubs that will perform superbly provided you plant them well. 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 leaf-mould. Fertilizing is not recommended, however, you can always use a special flower encourager. Fully hardy to min. -24°C or -27°C (USDA zone 5b) on a sheltered site.

Last update 24-12-2008.