Rhododendron makinoi 'JENS JÖRGEN SÖRENSEN'

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.

Jens Jörgen Sörensen is a very special variety of makinoi rhododendron, named in honour of a Danish breeder in 2000. It is a healthy and beautiful variety ideal for exposed locations as it withstands temperatures down to -28°C. Its evergreen leaves look like anything but a true rhody: they are extremely narrow (only some 3 cm wide) and up to 14 cm long, deep green and glossy, with margins curling downwards. The flowers are pale pink and come out quite early: already in April.


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. -28°C (USDA zone 5).

Last update 11-02-2009.