Rhododendron mucronulatum
Korean rhododendron
Notes:
Unlike most rhododendrons, this one is deciduous. Very early bloom on bare branches (perhaps the earliest-blooming rhododendron), susceptible to late frost; therefore southern exposure is not recommended.
All parts poisonous. Leaves aromatic when bruised/crushed; Rare Find Nursery calls this plant "well-known as an alternative to lavender", which makes me wonder how well known it can possibly be if I can't find any other sources corroborating that assertion.
Sources: Sunset, Stoecklein, JerseyYards.org, UConn, Missouri BG, Rutgers.
Tags:
acidic soil preferred
acidic soil required
alkaline soil intolerant
aromatic foliage
attracts:butterflies
deadheading recommended
deer sensitive
difficult to grow
drought intolerant
exposure:full shade
exposure:part shade
fall color notable
form:shrub
habit:irregular
habit:oval
habit:rounded
habit:upright
open canopy
part shade preferred
persistence:deciduous
poisonous
rich soil preferred
root disturbance intolerant
roots:shallow
salt intolerant
showy flowers
slow-growing
stoloniferous/suckering
type:broadleaf
use:border
use:foundation
use:hedge
use:mass planting
use:naturalizing
use:specimen
water:ample
water:regular
well-drained soil required
wind sensitive
Back to the previous page