Rhododendron Hybrids

With over 900 known species, the rhododendron family encompasses one of the most variable groups in the plant kingdom. Though primarily limited to the northern hemisphere, tropical forms can be found near and below the equator. The hybrid rhododendrons we are most familiar with are for the most part mountain shrubs that flourish above 1,000 feet naturally. Through hybridization with those species native to our area, there has been an explosion in the number of hardy, easier to grow, more colorful shrubs and small tree forms of rhododendrons. The basics remain the same as for those in nature: a preference for high shade, cool feet, fairly low fertilization requirements, enough sun to form buds, enough moisture frequently available but with good drainage. Although they can be found along streams, rhododendrons do not prosper with wet feet. Truss size can vary from very small to huge, when they are provided with wind protection. The Atlanta area is probably the southern border for successful culture, as soil temperature, particularly in the late summer, can rise too high for long life. In cooler climes, rhododendrons have been know to live for a hundred years or more, but in our area, because of our heat, most hybrids reach a peak and fail after twenty years or so. A winter rest period is an absolute necessity to avoid being grown to death.