FOCUS
FOCUS
SPECIES RHODODENDRONS
From species come the many hybrids found at Wells Medina Nursery. With over 100 species
and 220 hybrids available, now is the time to explore the greatest selection.
The genus Rhododendron belongs to the heath family (Ericaceae) which includes heath and
heathers, blueberries, mountain laurels, azaleas and arbutus. More than a thousand species
have been described within the genus Rhododendron. All azaleas are rhododendrons, with
deciduous azaleas belonging to one subgenus (Pentathera) and evergreen azaleas to
another (Tsutsutsi.)
Species rhododendrons prefer organich rich, well drained, acidic soils with a pH between 4.5 and
6, making them ideal for the Pacific Norhtwest. They are surface rooters and benefit from an
organic mulch kept away from the base of the plant. While most rhododendrons prefer filtered
shade, species rhododendrons can tolerate the full range of sun and shade preference.
Though flower size and color can be an important aspect, leaf size, shape, color and texture
offer great vatiation and year round interest.
Just a few examples of noteworthy species:
R. campylogynum
Small nodding bell shaped flowers from creamy white to creamy pink to cream.
Slow growing to 2' in 10 years. Hardy to -10F.
R. auriculatum
Upright tree-like form with fragrant white flowers as late as August. Afternoon shade.
To 6' in 10 years. Hardy to -5F.
R. lutescnes
Willow like leaves with bronze/red new foliage. Butter yellow flowers in April.
Full sun to part shade. To 6' in 10 years. Hardy to 5F.
R. roxieanum
White flowers with light pink tips and brown spotting at the throat. Blooming in April.
Long deeply veined leaves with heavy indumentum beneath. 3' in 10 years. Hardy to -10F.
R. sinogrande
The largest leafed rhododendron with leaves reaching 18" x 12" and 30" on mature plants.
New growth is silver gray turning deep glossy green and light indumentum with age.
Flowers are creamy to yellow with crimson blotches. Hardy to 10F.
R. litangense
Tiny foliage, bronzing in winter with a purple Apreil bloom. Will take some sun.
Spreading habit to 1' in 10 years. Hardy to -15F.
R. monstruseanum
Tender tree-like rhododendron having bell shaped pink flowers with crimson blotch
in large trusses. Hardy to 10F.