GardenWizzPlant Care Card

Rhododendron russatum

Rhododendron russatum · Shrub

Hardiness

H6 Hardy — very cold winter (to −20 to −15°C)

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Height × Spread

100–150 cm × —

Soil

acid soils with a pH of roughly 4.5–5.5; well-drained soils high in organic material

Flowering

—

Toxicity

poisonous to grazing animals because of a toxin called grayanotoxin in their pollen and nectar; extremely toxic to horses

Watch out for

Vine weevil: Apply biological nematodes to the soil in spring and autumn or use approved chemical controls.

Powdery mildew: Improve air circulation and apply a fungicide if infection is severe; avoid wetting foliage.

Bud blast: Remove and destroy infected buds promptly to prevent spread; improve site drainage.

Pieris lacebug: Encourage natural predators or apply a systemic insecticide if infestations are heavy.

Rhododendron leafhopper: Monitor for nymphs in spring and treat with appropriate insecticides if necessary.