Rhododendron protistum (Big Tree Rhododendron)

Michael's Opinion

A splendid sight when in full bloom.

Botanical Information

FamilyEricaceae
GenusRhododendron
Speciesprotistum
TypeTree (evergreen), Shrub (evergreen)
OriginSouth-west Yunnan Province, China.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone8 - 10
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cold season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH5 - H2
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-15 – 5
Height5 – 10 m (In some cases up to 25 meters tall)
GrowthFast

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionOne of the largest of all rhododendrons, developing to a very large, rounded shape, growing in some cases up to 25 meters tall.
ShapeMounding to round.
LandscapeBest suited to larger gardens with mixed larger trees to provide the dappled shade it prefers.
PropagationPropagate by seed when ripe, or semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, layering in autumn or grafting in late summer or late winter.
CultivationGrow in high organic, well-drained, acidic soils in full sun to partial shade. Mulch well to conserve moisture.
PestsMay be prone to vine weevil, rhododendron leafhopper, pieris lacebug, scale insects, caterpillars, aphids, powdery mildews, rhododendron petal blight, rhododendron bud blast, silver leaf and honey fungus
Notable SpecimensNational Trust Trelissick Garden, Feock, near Truro, Cornwall, United Kingdom.
Leaf DescriptionLeathery leaves which are enormous, sometimes as large as 56 x 25 cm.
Flower DescriptionLarge trusses of cream, purple or rose pink flowers in early springtime.
Texture DescriptionSmooth leaves with delicate purple or rose pink spring flowers.

Photographs