Native Plants Spotlight: Rhododendron catawbiense ‘Chionoides’

Dec 21, 2023 | Blog, Native Plant Spotlight

Native Evergreen Shrub

Rhododendron catawbiense ‘Chionoides’- Mountain Rosebay

rhododendron

 

Rhododendron catawbiense ‘Chionoides’ is winter hardy to USDA Zones 4-8 where it is best grown in acidic, humusy, organically rich, evenly moist, moisture-retentive but well-drained soils in part shade. Performs well with some morning sun but needs shady afternoon conditions. Tolerates close to full shade. Prefers cool summer temperatures. Roots must never be allowed to dry out. Acidify soils prior to planting and thereafter as needed. Plant in locations protected from strong winter winds.

Do not site plants within or near the drip line of trees in the walnut family (most rhododendrons are sensitive to toxic juglones produced by roots of walnuts, butternuts, pecans and hickories). Good soil drainage is essential (doesn’t like “wet feet”). Poor drainage inevitably leads to root rot, therefore raised beds/plantings should be considered in areas with heavy clay soils. Shallow, fibrous root systems (do not cultivate around plants) will benefit greatly from a mulch (e.g., wood chips, bark or pine needles) to help retain moisture and stabilize soil temperatures. All parts of this plant are highly toxic if ingested.

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Common Name: catawba rhododendron
Type: Broadleaf evergreen
Family: Ericaceae
Native Range: Southeastern United States
Height: 4.00 to 5.00 feet
Spread: 4.00 to 6.00 feet
Bloom Time: April to June
Bloom Description: White
Sun: Part shade
Water: Medium
Maintenance: Medium
Flower: Showy
Leaf: Evergreen
Other: Winter Interest

(Information from Missouri Botanical Garden)

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Rhododendron foliage and flowers

Rhododendron foliage and flowers

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