Rhododendron makinoi 'ROSA PERLE'

Makinoi rhododendrons originate in Honshu, Japan, where they grow in the mountains of altitude 200-700m. Until only recently they were classified as yakushimanum subspecies. They were named in the honour of Japanese botanist T.Makinoi who was the first to describe them at the beginning of 20th century. They have the narrowest leaves among all evergreen rhododendrons.

Rosa Perle is a true jewel. Yet before the flowers come out it strikes you with its unusual, highly decorative foliage. Its leaves are deep green, very narrow, up to 17 cm long an unlike other makinoi species they are flat. They are covered with silvery tomentum as they emerge, and have thick, wooly fawn indumentum on the undersides. The flowers are bright pink, very open and look quite delicate compared to some large-flowering rhododendrons. They come out from mid May until early June.

It grows slowly and very compact and dense. In good soil with enough moisture it lives happily in full sun. For richer flowering and growth 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, rich in humus, cool and always moist. Ideal soil mixture is peat with lime-free, light garden soil topped with leaf-mould. Use selective fertilizers for rhododendrons only. Hardy to min. -24°C (USDA zone 6).

Last update 07-02-2009.