Rhododendron eriocarpum

Rhododendron eriocarpum

Native to:
Japan, Nansei-shoto

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Ericaceae
Genus:
Rhododendron
Species:
Rhododendron eriocarpum
USDA Symbol:
RHER3

Growth Characteristics

Height:
300 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
may,jun
Bloom Colors:
white, pink
Evergreen Shrub:
Yes
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★★☆ Butterfly & moth species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rich, well-drained loamy soil
pH:
4.5 - 6.0 (acidic)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
consistently moist
Notes:
prefers organic matter-rich environments

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
30–90 days
Notes:
Seeds require cold stratification for 30-60 days; surface sow on moist peat and keep cool.

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Requires light or the seed is very fine. Surface sow and expose to light. * sprinkle seed on 10 cm damp sphagnum moss; cover with clear plastic pop bottle cut in half; transplant seedling to acidic mix in shade outdoors when 5 cm high; protect from rodents and give protection in cold frame first winter

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society