SPECIES FOUNDATION RHODODENDRONS
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kaempferi
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Upright or somewhat wide-spreading deciduous to semi-evergreen
shrubs. The beautiful funnel-shaped flowers (late spring to early
summer) are shades of red to pink or white, and may have purple
or crimson flecks. A heat tolerant and free-blooming azalea.
Native to Japan where it is widespread and often abundant in a
wide variety of habitats from sea level to around 4,000 ft.
77/659 ('Eastern Fire') Windsor (-10). An English selection
which flowers heavily in pink, toned orange trusses in early
May and colors brightly in autumn when the leaves turn yellow
and red. An FCC form
79/171 'Semperflorens' BERG ((5\R1\4). Amazing "multi-petaled"
carmine flowers for a "spidery" appearance. Very floriferous.
81/097 HLL (-10). Small open flowers, white in the throat
and reddish pink at the margin.
86/010 HSZ (-10). Double flowered form.
324sd1999 K&Y#389:RSBG (- 5\R1\4). These are grown from
seed collected wild at 1,600 ft. on Honshu, Japan.
329sd1999 kaempferi K&Y#411:RSBG (-5\R1\4). Semi-evergreen azalea
with reddish to pink flowers in late spring to early summer.
Heat tolerant and free-blooming, these are grown from seed collected
wild at 3,400 ft. in Japan.
333sd1999 K&Y#429:RSBG (- 5\R1\4). These are grown from seed
collected wild at 2,600 ft. on Honshu, Japan
kaempferi var. sataense
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Semi-evergreen shrubs to 10 ft. Flowers (May) are pink to purple.
Usually forms a dense mound. Found on open meadows at 1,500 ft.
Japan
77/303 (sataense) WEB (0). Large single pink flowers.
kanehirae
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Heat tolerant semi-evergreen shrubs to 8 ft. Flowers (April-May)
are pink, carmine-red to scarlet. Only recently introduced to
western horticulture and still rare in cultivation. Found on
river banks of low hilly areas. Taiwan
73/151 USDA 325026 (+10). Red funnel-shaped flowers.
kawakamii
Pseudovireya (Vireya)
Tropical shrubs to 5 ft. Flowers (Summer) are pale yellow or
white. Probably the hardiest of the Vireyas and used in
hybridizing. Found as an epiphyte in rain forests from 6,000 to
8,500 ft. Taiwan
79/026 HLL: FB: EWS: (+25). Retains its glossy leaves for up
to three years.
80/017 PAT-VVN (+25). Form with clusters of soft yellow
flowers. Collected in Taiwan.
keiskei
Triflora
A variable species, ranging from quite dwarf and compact to rather
open and tall-growing. The leaves are lanceolate to narrowly elliptic
in shape. The flowers (mid-spring) are yellow to pale yellow and
widely funnel-shaped. A floriferous and easily grown hardy species.
Native from central Japan south to Yakushima. Occurs in various
well-drained habitats and as an epiphyte from 2,000 to 6,000 ft.
74/014 'Yaku Fairy' Berg (- 10\R1\1 foot across). This
famous 1970 Award of Merit form of var. ozawae is a dense and
prostrate mound with yellow flowers. A choice rock garden.
75/233 ('Yaku Fairy') WEB (-10). Dense prostrate hardy plant
under six inches. Well-covered with clear yellow flowers and
red-tinged new growth. Makes a excellent groundcover.
76/121 BERG ((10). Compact form with yellow flowers
76/040 WEB (-10)/ Vigorous upright form collected on Yaku
Island, Japan, producing a 4-5 foot shrub with light yellow
flowers in mid-April.
86/013 ('Red Flare') HSZ (-10)
kesangiae
Grandia
Large upright evergreen shrubs eventually forming small trees.
This is a recently described (1989) new big-leaf species which
is still quite rare in cultivation here in North America. The
large and attractive elliptic leaves are a foot or more in
length with a woolly to somewhat plastered whitish to fawn
indumentum on the lower surface. The magnificent flowers
(mid-spring) are rose to pink with darker nectar pouches.
These are borne in a large rounded and compact inflorescence
(see cover jacket of The Larger Rhododendron Species by Peter
Cox, Timber Press, 1990 Edition). An interesting species known
only from the eastern Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan (so far)
where it grows in forests from 9,500 to 11,500 ft. This is
proving to be an easily grown and probably quite hardy new
big-leaf species with very attractively-colored flowers. Best
in light shade with protection from strong wind as the
petioles break easily.
92/041 BB#8826:Berg (0\R1\4). This clone grown from seed
collected wild by Warren Berg at 11,600 ft. on the Thrumseng
La in Bhutan.
keysii
Cinnabarina
Large upright and vigorous evergreen shrubs, similar in habit to
the much more widely grown R. cinnabarinum. The narrowly elliptic
leaves are densely scaly on the lower surface. This species has
some of the most unusual and distinct flowers in the genus. They
are narrowly tubular in shape, hanging in dense clusters from
terminal and axillary buds at the tops of the branches in late
spring to mid-summer. The flowers are usually bicolored with
various shades of red or orange on the tubes and yellow or green
lobes. Some forms have solid red or even yellow flowers. An exciting,
rarely seen species, not really what one would consider spectacular
but valuable for its extremely unusual flowers and late blooming time.
Said to be susceptible to powdery mildew but we have had no problems
here at the RSBG. Native to the eastern Himalayas where it occurs
in various habitats from 8,000 to 12,000 ft.
64/130 CAE (+10). Form with tubular orange flowers in June.
70/148 (keysii var. unicolor) BRO (+10). Hardy form with red
and orange flowers.
‘Bayport Beauty’ This clone given to us by our friend John Weagle
in Nova Scotia. Notes from John include “seed grown by Steele
circa 1964 from Wada. At the time Wada stated it was seed from
“what some call cordifolia”. A very good clone, thoroughly hardy
in Nova Scotia coastal zones. Now 2 ft. wide by 4” high.” John
notes that the seed was collected in the wild. An excellent
addition to the RSBG collection, this prostrate mound has light
yellow flowers in mid-spring.
kiusianum var. kiusianum
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Semi-evergreen rounded compact shrubs to 3 ft., usually less.
Flowers (May) are purple-mauve, orange-red, carmine, pink or
white. Spreading habit makes them ideal for ground cover. Popular
for bonsai and container growing. Found in open meadows and
forests on mountains above 2,400 up to 5,600 ft. Japan
74/077 FR (-5). Form with white flowers.
77/632 'Benichidori' WEB (-5). Japanese selection with
salmon-pink flowers.
79/021 CRH (-5). Form with white flowers.
79/061 kiusianum 'Ukon' USNA (-5\R1\2). As above but with early
single light pink flowers.
79/070 'Murasaki Shikubu' USNA (- 5\R1\18 inches).
Hose-in-hose reddish purple flowers. Evergreen foliage in a
mild climate or winter
79/073 'Hanekomachi' USNA (-5). Form with bright pinkish-red
flowers.
79/074 'Zuiko' USNA (-5). With light crimson flowers.
79/167 'Hinode' WEB (-5). Clearest red of the numerous
selections of this mountain azalea.
79/181 'Mt. Fuji' LOH: UBCP (-5). Pure white form.
81/011 WEB (-5). Warren Berg's best bright pure pink from
the seedlings he raised from his own collecting trip to Ebino.
81/100 HLL (-5). A variety with violet flowers.
82/097 'Maiogi' Nitzelius-Goteborg BG (-5)
83/043 'Mountain Gem' WGP (-5). An Award of Merit form.
90/063 WIND ((5). Mauve flowers
90/081 W#11250:RBGE#191029 ((5).
kiyosumense
Brachycalyx (Azalea)
Upright deciduous shrubs to 4 ft. Flowers (April-May) are lilac-
purple to reddish purple. Outstanding fall color and may be
hardier than originally thought. Japan
77/027 ROK-MG (0). Form with purple flowers.
kochii
Vireya
This is a rarely offered species native to the Philippines.
This is ultimately a large shrubby plant with inflorescences of 10-20
white flowers. These are showy and freely produced, a fine
species that is not often seen in cultivation. (+32\R2\4)
RSBG
konori
Phaeovireya (Vireya)
Large tropical evergreen shrubs or small trees with dark green
elliptic leaves. The whole plant is covered with orange-brown
scales. The large fragrant flowers are pure white to white
flushed pink or pink. Native to New Guinea where it is epiphytic
in rain forest or terrestrial in Nothofagus and oak forests or
swamps from 2,500 to 8,200 ft
79/036 PRA (+32). Form with white flowers.
80/143 BOS (+32). Collected wild in the Mt. Saruwaged area
in Papua New Guinea. Very fragrant.
83/065 Schick (+32\R2\4). Beautiful and fragrant white
flushed rose flowers.
konori var. phaeopeplum
Phaeovireya
Similar to var. konori but smaller in all of it's parts and so
better suited to growing in containers.
78/094 MOSS (+32\R2\?). Large fragrant white flowers flushed
rose on the lobes with a yellow throat.
kyawi
Parishia
Shrubs or small trees, 15 to 25 ft. Foliage with a reddish brown
indumentum. Flowers (June-August) scarlet, rose-scarlet, or crimson.
Native to deep wooded gorges, limestone cliffs, thickets and forests
from 5,000 to 12,000 ft. in Upper Myanmar and Yunnan, China.
77/745 F#24542:WIND (+15 or +20')
lacteum
Taliensia
Upright and stout-branched large evergreen shrubs or small trees.
The leaves have a thin brownish indumentum on the lower surface.
The pale yellow to yellow flowers (mid-spring) are in a large round
inflorescence and often have a large reddish blotch in the throat.
One of the most popular and highly sought after species with
beautiful flowers and attractive foliage. Rarely available, it is
rather slow-growing and difficult in cultivation, requiring shade
from the hot after no sun and a cool, acidic and extremely well-
drained soil. Native to west-central & NE Yunnan, China where it
occurs in various montane habitats from 10,000 to 13,000 ft.
64/141 COR (0). Rounded trusses of yellow flowers spotted
red. This clone pictured and praised in the 1965 RHS Yearbook.
75/111 Windsor (0). Cream yellow.
75/125 RBG (0). Form with clear yellow flowers. (Grafted)
76/101 G. Van Winkle (0). Pure yellow.
141sd1995 RSBG ('5\R3\2-3). Seedlings from a controlled pollination
cross here at the RSBG between 1975/125 (RBGE form w/ pale yellow
flowers and a small blotch) x 1976/101 (yellow w/ a faint blotch).
143sd95 RSBG ((5\R3\2-3). Seedlings from a hand-pollinated cross
here at the RSBG. These are nice-looking plants from 75/125
(RBGE form- pale yellow with a small carmine blotch) x 64/141
(Corsock form - pale yellow with crimson spots). $
486sd1997 BH#150:Berg ('5\R3\2-3). Nice large seedlings grown
from seed collected wild in NW Yunnan, China. Rarely offered
wild-collected lacteum! A real opportunity for the collector.
503sd1998 CCHH#8238:RSBG (- 5\R3\2-3). These are seedlings
grown from my collection of seed at 12,150 ft. on the CangShan
laetum
Euvireya (Vireya)
Tropical upright shrubs to 5 ft. Flowers (flowering time varies)
are pure yellow, and can be scented. Often a vigorous grower.
Native to the Anggi Lakes area in the Arfak Mountains of Irian
Jave on the island of New Guinea. Found in rain forest and in the
marshy areas of lakes from 6,000 to 7,500 ft. Indonesia
80/144 BOS (+32). Collected wild on Mt. Arfak, in
northwestern Irian Java, Indonesia
78/088 STRY:MOSS (+32\R2\?). "Strybing's best" form, with
chrome-yellow flowers.
lanatum
Lanata
Shrubs to 20 ft; but usually smaller. Flowers (April) are creamy
yellow or pink with crimson flecks. Several forms have been
found, all with unusual foliage and beautiful indumentum. Native
to fir forests and steep scrubby cliffs from 10,000 to 14,000 ft.
NE India, Bhutan, China
77/695 (flinckii) BRO (0)
79/176 WEB (0). Wild collected form from Sikkim.
lanigerum
Arborea
Shrubs or small trees to 20 ft. Flowers (February-March) are deep
pink to rose-purple. Dark green leaves are shiny above, with
white to brown indumentum below. Found on steep ridges at 8,500
to 11,000 ft. China, India
66/556 ('Silva') LOG (+5). An award form with large rounded
trusses generously filled with an average of 30 flowers
crimson-pink, suffused white in early March. AM 1954
79/113 KW 6258: BH (+5)
lapponicum
Lapponica
Bushy shrubs to 3 ft. Flowers (February) are violet-rose to
purple, rarely white. Unique circumpolar distribution. Native to
rocky peat over permafrost tundra at 3,000 to 6,000 ft.
Scandinavia, USSR (Siberia), N America, Canada, Greenland
78/017 C. Desch (-20) Wild collected form from Mt.
Washington, New Hampshire.
78/066 (parvifolium) COX:BERG ((20). Upright form with flowers
dark reddish- purple (77A)
latoucheae
Choniastrum
Shrubs or small trees, 6 to 25 ft. Broad, funnel shaped flowers
(March-May) are light pink to pale mauve, often with darker
flecks, with or without a brown blotch, and may be strongly
scented. The stiff foliage is dark green and glossy. Specimens
formerly identified as R. wilsonae have been reclassified and
merged with this species. Found in densely shaded ravines at
5,000 to 6,000 feet. SE China, Japan (Ryukyu Islands).
65/428 (syn. wilsonae) WAK (0). Delicately scented pastel
rose-purple flowers with yellow-brown flecks.
latoucheae
Our first offering of this species which is a member of Section
Choniastrum which includes widespread but rarely grown species
such as moulmainense and championae. This has typical Choniastrum
smooth and glossy foliage with large, flat-faced flowers of pink
to rose in mid-spring. Has been hardy for us for many years now.
From seed collected in the wild. (+5\R1\6)
RSBG#228sd2013. JN#12412
laudandum var. temoense
Pogonanthum
Low shrubs rarely exceeding 2 ft. Flowers (March-April) are white
or pink, rarely pale yellow. Found on steep alpine slopes and
rocky moraines at 9,500 to 15,000 ft. China
75/036 RBG-K&P (+5). Flowers are a delicate lavender-pink.
ledebourii = R. dauricum
Fully evergreen relative of R. dauricum with glossy green foliage
turning purple in winter. This clone with pure white flowers in
early spring. Floriferous, tough and hardy.(-25\R1\4).
1999/535 ledebourii JJH#9410111
leiopodum var. amamiense
Choniastrum
Evergreen shrubs to 10 ft. Flowers pink to white. Grows on rocky
hillsides. Taiwan
77/153 WEB (+5)
lepidostylum
Trichoclada
Compact shrubs to 4 ft. Flowers (June) are yellow, sometimes
spotted orange. Beautiful glaucous blue, hairy, aromatic leaves.
Worth growing for foliage alone. Found on boulders and ledges at
10,000 to 12,000 ft. China
70/044 WW (0). Form with yellow flowers.
75/246 WEB (+5)
76/382 BRO-UBC (0). Form with yellow flowers.
lepidotum
Lepidota
Usually evergreen shrubs to 5 ft. Flowers (April-May) are white,
yellow, pink or various shades of purple. Possibly the most
widespread and variable of all rhododendron species with a
tremendous range of habitat. Found in alpine moorland to various
types of forest at 8,000 to 15,000 ft. India, Nepal, Bhutan, NE
Burma, China
79/050 ('Reythe's Purple') GLE (0). An award form with
bright purple flowers on a plant with low habit. AM 1967
79/054 WEB (0). Yellow flowered form collected on Mt.
Everest.
81/009 BB 191: PS (+5) Collected wild at 13,700 ft. near
Thimbu, Bhutan. Yellow flowers tinged pink.
82/167 (lepidotum var. album) Hedegaard (+5). White flowers.
82/168 (var. minutiforme) Hedegaard 372 (0). Low growing
white lowered form.
84/090 King & Paton (+5). Yellow flowers.
leptanthum
Phaeovireya (Vireya)
Small tropical evergreen shrubs with young stems and ovate
leaves densely covered by brown scales. The deep pink to
salmon or carmine flowers are tubular and covered with brownish
scales on the outer surface. Native to E Papua New Guinea
where it grows as an epiphyte or on rocks and cliffs from
4,200 to 7,500 ft.
85/043 TT-DC (+32)
87/042 RBGE (+32\R1\?). Rose flowers with golden brown scales
on this clone collected wild by Michael Black (#75).
leptocladon
Maddenia
Our first offering of this exciting new introduction. This
species forms an upright to fairly compact growing evergreen
shrub. The large funnel-shaped flowers are quite distinct in
being bright greenish-yellow fading to rich pale yellow with
age. This is another introduction from Keith Rushforth who
collected the seed in the Lao Cai Province of Vietnam where it
grew on cliffs at around 6,500 ft. Quite easy to cultivate if
provided with excellent drainage. Some reports of relative
hardiness from the United Kingdom.
96/072 KR#2932:Millais (+10 to +5'\R2\5). Fantastic new
species with very unusually colored flowers. Quite striking.
NOTE: We have several similar clones accessioned from this
same seed collection and you may receive any one of these as
demand and supplies warrant. The relevant RSF accession
# will be provided with your plant(s).
96/070 leptocladon KR#2932:Millais (+10 to +5?\R2\5). A newly
introduced maddenia with bright greenish-yellow flowers fading
to a rich pale yellow with age. Quite different from anything
else and very attractive. From the Lao Cai Province of Vietnam
where it occurs on cliffs around 6,500 ft.
leptothrium
Azalestrum
Upright shrubs, 2 to 25 ft. Flowers (April) are pale rose or
lavender. Suitable for mild gardens with a sheltered site. Found
at margins of mixed forests, on cliffs and steam gullies at 4,000
to 11,000 ft. China, N Burma
66/601 CAE (+15). Pale rose-lavender flowers.
leucapis
Boothia
Shrubs to 3 ft. Flowers (March-April) are milky white, often
tinged pink. Limited distribution in the wild. Found in cliffs
and scrubby slopes, sometimes as an epiphyte at 8,000 to 10,000
ft. China
65/CRA (0). Compact form with white flowers in March.
65/398 CRA (0). Charming white flowers punctuated with dark
brown stamens, on a compact low plant.
RSBG#379sd2005
liliiflorum
Maddenia
Shrubs to 10 ft. Flowers (April-May) are white and fragrant. Only
2-3 flowers per truss, but waxy exquisitely shaped and long
lasting. Found on rocky slopes and open ridges from 2,000 to
4,800 ft. China
80/156 UBC PP (+25)
lindleyi
Maddenii
Leggy, open-growing evergreen shrubs with attractive exfoliating
reddish-brown bark. The large and fragrant, openly funnel-bell-
shaped flowers appear in mid to late spring. They are an
incredible pure white or white flushed with pink, often with an
orange or yellow stain at the base. A fantastic species in flower
and rated by many as one of the most beautiful flowers in the
genus. Requires extremely well-drained soil. Not fully hardy in
the Seattle area but worth attempting in a sheltered position.
Also good in containers but can be a bit straggly so frequent
pinching for the first couple of years is recommended. Occurs
as an epiphyte or on cliffs in the eastern Himalayas from 6,000
to 11,000 ft. Perhaps my favorite species, definitely in the top
three.
78/067 L&S 6562 - Cox - WEB (+15). The hardy form of this
very fragrant large white flowered Himalayan native.
84/060 'Geordie Sherriff' Brodick (+5\R2\5). This is a
fantastic selection from Grothausii Group. This clone with
beautiful white flowers strongly flushed with deep rose won
the Award of Merit in 1969.
520sd1997 SEH#534:RSBG (+15\R2\5). Grown from my
collection of seed at 8,900 ft. in the Sikkim Himalaya.
I collected this seed from plants in full bloom with
large pure crystalline white flowers. Cutting-grown from
the original seedlings. Fantastic!
227sd1997 RSBG (+5\R2\5). These are seedlings grown from
seed produced from a controlled-pollinated cross here at the
RSBG. These are the famous Grothausii Group which is hardier
but has smaller flowers. The plant used for the cross is the
AM form 'Geordie Sherriff'' (our 1984/060 selfed). These
should have pink flushed flowers.
lochiae
Euvireya (Vireya)
Mounding tropical evergreen shrubs with dark glossy green obovate
leaves. The flowers are bright scarlet to red and tubular-funnel
in shape. An easily -grown, floriferous and interesting species
that occurs further south than any other and is one of only two
species native to Australia (NE Queensland). Found in open bushland
and on rocks from 3,000 to 4,400 ft.
78/096 DT-FM (+32). Form with pure scarlet flowers.
79/029 STAN (+32\R1\?). Red flowers.
longesquamatum
Maculifera
Shrubs from 6 to 20 ft. Flowers (May) are rose-pink and blotched.
Dense, shaggy hairs on young shoots and leaf petioles. Common
over a limited area in wildlands and grassy slopes at 7,500 to
11,000 ft. China
79/149 KEW-GBG (0)
longipes
Argyrophylla
New species to cultivation. Upright and bushy evergreen shrubs
with long and narrow lanceolate leaves. The lower surface of the
leaves is covered with a thin pale brown indumentum. The flowers
(mid-spring') are pale pink to rose or purplish and may have spots.
This is an exciting new introduction which is quite floriferous and
beautiful as seen in Chinese manuals. It should be as excellent a
performer in the garden as the other members of this subsection
have proven to be over the years. Native to forests and cliffs
from 4,500 to 9,000(') ft. in China (S Sichuan, NE Yunnan;N Guizhou).
457sd1996 SEH#119:RSBG (0\R1\5). My own collection from around
9,000 ft. in S Sichuan, China.
longistylum
Tephropepela
An erect-growing but small evergreen shrub which tends to sprawl
about a bit. Peeling brown bark and deep green shiny leaves somewhat
similar to the closely related hanceanum. The white, narrowly funnel-
shaped flowers (mid-spring) appear in small clusters and have a
long style and stamens protruding beyond the flower. Very rare in
cultivation but quite attractive in a subdued fashion. Found only
in W Sichuan, China where it occurs in various habitats from 3,000
to 7,500 ft. Rarely offered.
79/049 GLE (+5). White flowers.
lopsangianum (H.Eiberg. New species)
Our first offering of this newly introduced species. This is a
somewhat enigmatic taxon that has been collected several times
over the past several years under names such as “eclecteum
affinity”, “stewartianum affinity”, etc. The current name seems
to fit best and the plants do match the type description.
This thomsonii relative is much lower-growing and more compact
than its well-known cousin. The leaves are almost round and in
whorls at the ends of the stems - a very unique look. It bears
funnel-campanulate flowers in early to mid-spring that are a
waxy, deep red to crimson and somewhat pendant. These are very
different from the old cultivated plants that were distributed
for decades as “thomsonii ssp. lopsangianum” which was probably
just a hybrid of unknown origin between thomsonii and sherriffii.
From seed collected in the wild in a newly explored region.
(0\R1\2)
RSBG#272sd2011. BE#0917
loranthiflorum
Solenovireya (Vireya)
Densely-branched tropical evergreen shrubs with obovate smooth
green leaves in pseudowhorls. The foliage is more or less covered
with scales on the undersurface. The fragrant flowers are white
with a long tubular corolla and abruptly flared lobes (salverform).
Grows as an epiphyte in mountainous rain forests from 600 to
3,300 ft. on the South Solomon Islands of South Solomon and Papua
New Guinea (Bismarck Archipelago and North Solomon Islands).
83/058 SCHI (+32\R1\?). White fragrant flowers.
lowndesii
Lepidota
Small, creeping shrubs to 1 ft. Dainty flowers (May-June) are
pale yellow and spotted. Highly prized and extremely rare in
cultivation. Found in dry rocky ledges or peaty slopes from
12,000 to 15,000 ft. Nepal
82/120 R. Hatch (+15)
ludlowii
Uniflora
Shrubs to 1 ft. Flowers (May) are yellow with reddish-brown
spots. Flowers large in comparison to the foliage. Rare and
difficult to propagate. Known only from the original collection.
Native to rocky hillsides, spreading over moss-covered soil at
13,000 ft. China
74/033 UBC (0). Yellow flowers
lukiangense
Irrorata
Shrubs or small trees, 10 to 20 ft. Flowers (March-April) are
deep magenta rose with purple flecks and a basal blotch. Found on
open rocky slopes and mixed woodlands from 7,000 to 11,000 ft.
China
75/247 (lukiangense ssp. ceraceum) Hiller - WEB (+5)
RSBG#1975/071
luteiflorum
Glauca
Compact shrubs, 3 to 5 ft. Campanulate flowers (April) are
lemon-yellow to bright clear yellow. Leaves elliptic in shape and
aromatic.Rare in the wild. Found above tree-line on exposed
ridges at 10,000 to 11,000 ft. NE Burma
64/103 BRO (+10). Early lemon yellow flowers, glaucous
undersurface to the leaves.
64/114 LOG (+10). Yellow flowers.
81/124 KW 21040: GLE: ACL: EK (+10).
lutescens
Triflora
Upright evergreen shrubs with reddish new growth. The lanceolate
leaves have a long acuminate 'drip-tip' which is quite distinctive.
The widely funnel-shaped flowers (late winter to early spring) are
pale to primrose yellow with green spots. A lovely species with
early yellow flowers (very rare in the garden!) and attractive
foliage. Easily grown and floriferous. Native to China (W Sichuan,
NE Yunnan, Guizhou & Hubei) where it occurs in thickets, forests
and along streams from 1,750 to 10,500 ft.
74/079 ('Bagshot Sands') GLE (+5). An award of Merit form
(1953) with clear primrose yellow flowers.
74/080 HYD (-20). Bright yellow flowers.
75/224 CW (+5). An FCC form with yellow flowers.
84/061 BRO (+5). Yellow flowers.
352sd96 SEH#002:RSBG (+5\R1\6). My own collection from 9,600 ft.
in S Sichuan, China. Beautiful bright and glossy reddish
purple new growth on these vigorous seedlings.
424sd96 SEH#076:RSBG (0?\R1\6). Grown from seed collected wild
at around 9,000 ft. in S Sichuan. Beautiful bright reddish
purple new growth on these vigorous seedlings.
luteum
Pentanthera (Azalea)
Dense, often stoloniferous deciduous shrubs to 12 ft. Flowers
(May-June) are yellow and very fragrant. Popular because of the
very long flowering season and sweet fragrance. Native to a wide
variety of habitats from open grasslands to coniferous woodlands
to 4,000 ft. Found in Lithuania, Poland, Belarus, NW Ukraine, E
Austria, NE Yugoslavia, Turkey, Georgia, and SW Russia.
74/080 Hydon (-20). Bright yellow flowers.
76/410 AR (-20). Propagated from a selected seedling grown
from seed collected wild in Turkey. Fragrant yellow flowers.
76/432 'Golden Comet' RSBG (- 20\R1\4). The first named
clone introduced by the RSBG. This is a spectacular plant with a
stunning long-lasting inflorescence of fragrant deep yellow
flowers. A deciduous azalea, this clone has colorful fall
foliage of bright scarlet. This is the first of our R. luteum
clones to color in the autumn and the last to drop its leaves,
often remaining attractive into late November. With a great
growth habit of horizontally held branches and good resistance
to powdery mildew, 'Golden Comet' is a plant for any and all
gardens. This selection was grown from seed collected wild in
Turkey. Tolerant of full sun but best in partial shade and
quite lovely in the woodland garden.
lyi
Maddenia
Shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (April-May) are white with a green or
yellowish blotch. Very tender and insists on perfect drainage.
From dense woods and dry plateau at 4,000 to 9,000 ft. China
81/125 PGV 19:SA-EK (+25). White fragrant flowers.
96/060 KR#2962:Millais (+15\R2\5). This new collection by
Keith Rushforth in Vietnam seems to be more upright in growth
than the old Thailand collections previously cultivated. Our
first offering.
1998/010 lyi KR#:Glendoick (+15\R2\5). Large and vigorous
maddenia with large funnel-shaped white flowers. Collected
by Keith Rushforth in Vietnam. Requires excellent drainage,
should be quite heat resistant.
macabeanum
Grandia
Large upright evergreen shrubs or trees to 45 ft. A big-leafed
species with leaves up to 12 or even 18 inches long, shiny green
on top with a woolly white to pale brown indumentum below. The
flowers (early to late spring) are yellow or yellowish-white with
a purple blotch in a huge, magnificent inflorescence. One of the
more common, hardy and easy to cultivate members of it's subsection.
Native to NE India (Manipur and Nagaland) where it occurs in mixed
woodlands or forms pure stands from 8,000 to 10,000 ft.
75/180 KW 20304: CS (+15). Yellow flowers with a purple
blotch.
75/285 (Tower Court Form) TC: CH (+15). Form with light
yellow flowers.
117sd93 RSBG (+5\R1\6). Seedlings from a hand-pollinated cross
here at the RSBG. Our 76/308 (the famous "Trewithen form" -
with lemon-yellow flowers and maroon nectaries) selfed.
RSBG#113sd2014. GR#1432
macgregoriae
Euvireya (Vireya)
Large tropical evergreen shrubs or small trees with
ovate-lanceolate leaves in pseudowhorls. The leaves are smooth
on the upper surface and more or less scaly beneath. The
tubular flowers are light yellow to orange, pink or red, often
with a yellow tube and orange lobes. Easily grown and
floriferous, this is one of the best vireyas for the beginner.
A common species throughout New Guinea where it occurs in a
wide variety of habitats from 1,600 to 10,800 ft.
79/032 Pratt (+32\R1\?).
85/016 USDA 354381 (+32\R1\?)
85/021 USDA#354330 (+32\R1\?). Deep saffron-yellow flowers
flushed apricot on the lobes.
85/026 USDA 354329 (+32\R1\?). Form with pale apricot flowers.
95/067 Woods#2646:Glendoick (+32\R1\4). Deep saffron-yellow
flowers on this superb selection collected wild in New Guinea
macrogemmum
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Medium sized shrubs. Flowers purple. Native to Japan.
77/642 WEB.
macrophyllum
Pontica
Large upright to rounded evergreen shrubs. The flowers (late
spring to early summer) are pale to deep pink or rose-purple,
magenta or white, typically with green, yellow or reddish flecks.
An attractive and widespread species, well adapted to drought
conditions and tolerant of heat and even salt spray. Inhabits
the climatic zone with a relatively dry growing season but
abundant winter moisture found along the western coast of
North America from S British Columbia, Canada to California,
USA. It occurs in forests and on open slopes from sea level
to 4,000 ft.
It was called R. californicum by many groups until the efforts of
Leonard Frisbie set the record straight. In 1959, this species,
with the correct name, was adopted as the Washington State
Flower.
77/208 WEB (-5). Form with pure white flowers.
79/019 ('Brookings Deep Pink') BS (-5). Form with deep pink
flowers.
79/020 ('Red Langlois') BS (-5). A select deep pink form
with very little blue in it.
80/158 P. Miller (-5). White flowered form.
81/008 ('Bill Magness White') BS (-5). A white flowered
form.
85/050 'Seven Devils' SMI.B ((5\R2\6). A clone with deep
maroon flowers which was collected wild in Oregon.
85/051 B. Magnus - B. Smith. (-5). White flowered form.
85/053 ('Jim Blackford Form') J. Blackford - B. Smith (-5)
188sd96 95RP#007:RSBG (- 5\R2\6). Grown from seed collected
wild by Rick Peterson from the Mineral Creek population in the
Washington Cascades. NOTE: Comparable plants from other RP#
collections made in this same area will be substituted if
necessary.
186sd95 RSBG (- 5\R2\6). Grown from seed collected wild at
Rhododendron Lake, BC, Canada; the most northern population of
this species known to exist.
330sd95 95ARS#395:RSBG ((5\R2\6). Grown from seed collected wild
from a plant (RB#87-5) having pink flowers with red spots deep
in the throat.
181sd96 95RP#012"RSBG ((5\R2\6). Grown from seed collected wild
from the Mineral Creek population in the Washington Cascades.
macrosepalum
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Semi-evergreen shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (April-May) are pale
lavender to pink and sometimes lightly scented. Leaves, hairy and
slightly rugose. Native to central and southern Honshu and on
Shikoku. Found in thickets and open woods on well-drained soils
from 500 to 1,300 feet. Native to central and southern Honshu and
on Shikoku. Japan
65/447 'Linearifolium' LEO ((5). Unique ribbon-like leaves and
bright lavender- pink flowers, composed of 5 separate ribbon-like
petals. Lightly fragrant. This form thought to be a sport of
R. macrosepalum found in a Japanese garden.
66/447 (syn. linearifolium var. macrosepalum) LEO (+5).
Unique ribbon-like leaves and bright lavender-pink flowers,
composed of 5 separate ribbon-like petals.
82/118 (Ladylock's) PH (0). A larger growing and larger
leaved plant than typical with light purple flowers.
82/134 Moscow Main BG (0).
maculiferum ssp. maculiferum
Maculifera
Shrubs to 20 ft. (but usually less) with a compact habit. Flowers
(March-May) are white to pale pink,with a dark crimson blotch. Blooms
as a young plant and is relatively hardy. Common in woodlands and
on cliffs from 7,000 to 10,000 ft. Native to China (Guizhou, Guangxi,
Gansu, Hubei, Shaanxi, and Sichuan).
65/253 STRO ((5 or (10'). Pink buds opening pastel-rose and
fading to white, with a magenta blotch. 8-10",
maculiferum ssp. anhweiense
Maculifera
Shrubs from 5 to 8 ft. with a spreading but compact and rounded habit.
Distinguished from ssp. maculiferum by its glabrous pedicels, calyx
and ovary. Flowers (April-May) are pink to white, with purplish-red
spots. Free-blooming, heat tolerant, and relatively hardy, this
subspecies should be grown more often in areas such as the eastern
coast of the U.S. Native to Lion Ridge, Anhui, China, where it
occurs in thickets or on cliffs and open rocky places from 4,000 to
6,000 ft.
65/245 (anhweiense) STRO ((5 or (10'). Rose buds opening to
white flushed rose flowers with a light spotting of magenta
flecks on the upper lobe.
maddenii ssp. crassum
Maddenia
Large open-growing (sometimes more compact) evergreen shrubs.
An extremely variable and widespread species now divided into
two intergrading subspecies (ssp. maddenii & ssp. crassum) which
are both comprised of several former "species". The large fragrant
flowers (late spring to early summer) are quite variable in size
and color but typically white or white flushed various colors, cream,
pinkish or rarely yellow. A beautiful and easily grown species
with good heat tolerance and relative hardiness in certain forms.
Requires excellent drainage. Native to a wide variety of habitats
from 5,000 to 12,000 ft. in China (Yunnan & SE Tibet), Upper Burma,
NE India and Vietnam.
65/364 (odoriferum) Brodick (+25).
66/633 (syn. manipurense) LEO (+20). White flowers with a
yellow in the base of the throat.
70/183 LAM (+10?\R2\8). Fragrant white flushed yellow flowers.
maddenii ssp. maddenii
Maddenia
Large and open-growing (sometimes more compact) evergreen shrubs.
An extremely variable and widespread species. The large funnel-
shaped fragrant flowers (late spring to early summer) are quite
variable in size and color, ranging from cream to pinkish or
rarely yellow but typically white or white flushed various colors.
A beautiful and easily grown species with good heat tolerance
and relative hardiness in certain forms. Requires excellent
drainage. Native to a wide variety of habitats from 5,000 to
12,000 ft. in N India (W Arunachal Pradesh & Sikkim), Bhutan
and SE Tibet. One of my personal favorites which I grow in
containers, these can be brought indoors when blooming to enjoy
the magnificent fragrant flowers.
79/014 PIE (+15\R2\8). Fragrant white flushed pink flowers.
This clone grown from seed collected wild in Sikkim.
80/130 (brachysiphon) TRG (+25)
94/001 Enjoy (+15\R2\8). A form from Paul Molinari in California
known as the 'Jack Evans form'. Our first offering of this
spectacular selection with sumptuous large white flowers.
Probably our best clone. Simply fantastic!
585sd1997 SEH#599:RSBG (+15\R2\8). Grown from my collection of
seed at 5,550 ft. in the Sikkim Himalaya from plants with large
white flushed pink flowers. Rarely available wild source maddeni
makinoi
Pontica
Rounded evergreen shrubs with extremely narrow leaves several
inches in length but typically less than one inch in width.
The foliage is similar to that of the closely related
R. yakushimanum (except in shape) but emerges much later in the
season. The pink to white flowers appear in early summer about
a month later than those of a "yak". A distinct and ornamental
plant for it's wonderfully indumented and unusually shaped linear
leaves. Best in light shade and tolerant of limestone soils.
Native to a small area of C Honshu, Japan where it grows in
forests from 600 to 2,300 ft.
73/173 JHC: PHB (0)
76/047 (makinoi) JHC (-15).
84/152 (makinoi) HLL (-15). Form with pink flowers.
293sd95 95ARS#399:RSBG ((15\R2\3). Grown from seed collected
wild on Mt. Horaiji, Japan. Amazingly beautiful and long
leaves on these plants.
mallotum
Neriiflora
Shrubs or small trees, 5 to 15 ft. Tubular-campanulate flowers
(February-April) are scarlet, or cherry-red to crimson. Thick
obovate leaves are dark green and rugose above with dense, woolly
cinnamon-brown indumentum below. Found in bamboo groves, thickets
of other rhododendron species, scrub, and on open rocky slopes
and hillsides from 10,.000 to 12,000 ft. NE Burma, China (W
Yunnan).
76/150 WGP (+25). This form, received an Award of Merit in
1933 for its crimson flowers and the same award in 1973 for its
beautiful foliage.
#9809 mallotum Sinclair (+5\R1\4). Rarely offered species with
red flowers in early spring. One of the most spectacular species
for foliage with large obovate leaves to eight inches in length.
The upper surface is rugose and the lower is covered with a woolly
cinnamon-brown indumentum. These are large plants grown by June
Sinclair from seed produced by crossing two good garden forms.
Our first offering in many years.
RSBG#346sd2005. SEH#25010
maoerense (ex. PW#131)
Fortunea
A beautiful new species in cultivation. This is a large-growing Fortunea
and is similar to the species fortunei but with much larger and longer,
very shiny leaves. The flowers are somewhat similar as well but more
purple-pink (darker than those of R. fortunei) and about a month earlier
in the season. These are grown from hand-pollinated seed produced from
plants here in the RSBG grown from wild seed. Native to the same mountain
in southern China as R. yuefengense so I am assuming it will be of similar
hardiness. (-5\R1\6)
mariesii
Brachycalyx
Deciduous shrubs, 3 to 20 ft. Flowers (April) rose to rose-purple.
Abundant and widespread in the eastern provinces of China and northern
Taiwan but extremely rare in cultivation. Found in thickets and
on cliffs from 1,200 to 6,300 ft.
76/079 BERG ((5). A clone grown from seed collected in Taiwan.
martinianum
Selensia
Multi-branched shrubs which can reach 7 ft. Flowers (April) are
pale yellow to pink with or without purple flecks. Distinctive
plants suitable for the small garden. Native to forest margins
and open pastures from 10,000 to 14,000 ft. China, NE Upper
Burma.
75/205 WA (+5)
mauculiferum ssp. anhweiense
Maculifera
Compact shrubs, 5 top 8 ft. Flowers (April-May) are pink to white
with purplish-red spots. Found on open cliffs and shady thickets
at 4,000 to 6,000 ft. China
65/245 (anhweiense) STR (-10), Form with light pink flowers.
maximum
Pontica
Large evergreen shrubs or small trees blooming in mid-summer with white
flushed pink to rose-purple or rarely pure white flowers, usually with
greenish flecks. The leaves can be up to one foot in length and are
covered with an attractive whitish indumentum when they first emerge.
Quite cold and heat resistant and tolerant of extremely heavy shade.
Occurs in deciduous or coniferous woodlands from 1,000 to 5,500 ft.
A common species from the province of Nova Scotia, Canada south to
the states of Georgia and Alabama, USA.
75/137 'Mt. Mitchell' GAB (-25). This cultivar originating
in the mountains of North Carolina. It is distinct in the
erratic marbling with red pigment throughout the plant
resulting in variably streaked stems and leaves and flowers pink
or red, sometimes lighter.
77/564 Schwind - VVN (-25)
80/011 Clarence Towe (-25) Pink flowered form collected wild
in S Carolina.
83/192 'Compactum' GLM (-25). Dwarf form with yellow-pink
flowers.
89/023 'Red Max' HILL ((25). Especially nice flower and form.
301sd1995 95ARS#404:RSBG ('25\R1\6). Grown from seed collected
wild in Clay Co., N.C. from a 'red-flowered form'.
308sd95 95ARS#405:RSBG ((25\R1\6). Grown from seed collected
wild at 3,500 ft. on Mt. Mitchell, N.C. from a "red form".
318sd95 95ARS#410:RSBG ((25\R1\6). Grown from seed collected
wild at 2,900 ft. on Bent Mountain, Georgia from a plant with
white flowers and extremely blue-green foliage.
577sd96 96ARS#335:RSBG ((25\R1\6). Grown from seed collected
wild on Bent Mountain, Georgia from a plant with blush flowers
in multiple terminal buds.
98/708 RING ((25\R1\6). A selection from the wild by George
Ring of a "multi-bud form" with many more pale pink flowers
than normal on this species. A very limited supply of grafted
plants of this special selection.
168sd1999 SEH#1015:RSBG ('25\R1\6). Grown from my collection of
seed in the mountains of W North Carolina from a population
(4,850 ft.) with a good dark indumentum.
173sd1999 SEH#1020:RSBG ('25\R1\6). As above but from the
highest population located (5,500 ft.).
90sd001 Seedlings ( grown from seed collected at Bowman's Hill
Wildflower Preserve, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania.
megacalyx
Maddenia
Shrubs, 4 to 25 ft. possibly less in cultivation. Flowers (May)
are white or cream, often flushed purple in bud or, more rarely,
flushed a pink-purple when open. A distinctively large calyx,
either pale green or green flushed pink, characterizes this
species and contributes to its name. Grows in thickets, bamboo,
rain forest by streams, often growing out over the water, with
scrub, or overhanging sheer granite cliffs, and very rarely
epiphytic. Found at 6,000 to 13,000 ft. NE Burma, China, E India
80/134 KW 20836: TRG (+25). Large heavily scented white
flowers.
megeratum
Boothia
Compact and densely-branched dwarf evergreen shrubs with hairy petioles
and young shoots. The tiny (usually less than one inch) elliptic to
rounded leaves of this species are quite attractive with hairy margins
and a glaucous-white underside. The flatly bell-shaped flowers (early
spring) are yellow to cream or whitish with a yellow blotch. One of
the finest of the dwarf species when grown well, requiring exceptional
drainage. A favorite which I find quite happy in a container for close-up
viewing of the attractive foliage and flowers. Native to high rainfall
areas of SE Tibet, Arunachal Pradesh, Upper Burma & NW Yunnan, China
where it occurs from 8,000 to 13,500 ft. as an epiphyte and on mossy
cliffs, old stumps and logs.
65/261 Bodnant (+5\R2\1). The famous 'Bodnant form'. The deep
glossy green, tiny rounded leaves have a fringe of long hairs
on the margin. Dark yellow flowers on this smaller-growing
clone which is one of my favorite all-time plants.
73/178 WW: CS (+15)
82/158 BIR (0?\R2\2). Beautiful blue-green leaves fringed with long
hairs.
mekongense var. mekongense
Trichoclada
Upright to rounded deciduous shrubs usually under six feet high.
The small obovate and thinly textured leaves are smooth on the
upper surface but bristly on the lower. The foliage often turns
to shades of yellow in the autumn before dropping. The yellow to
greenish yellow flowers (mid-spring to early summer) are funnel-
bell-shaped. This species and its close relatives are unusual in
that they are actual deciduous rhododendrons and not 'azaleas'.
Good in full sun or partial shade. Native over a wide range from
the eastern Himalayas to central Yunnan, China. Occurs in a wide
variety of habitats from9,000 to 14,500 ft.
74/111 (viridescens 'Doshong La') GLE (0). An award form
with light yellow flowers in late May. AM 1972
76/205 RBG (0). More compact medium growth, lightly glaucous
summer foliage and soft tomato red bands along the light
yellow flowers.
441sd1998 CCHH#8170:RSBG (0\R1\3). Grown from my collection
of seed at 11,800 ft. on the Salween/Irrawaddy divide in NW
Yunnan, China. The margins of the rounded leaves have a
fringe of long hairs.
80/002 ('Yellow Fellow') Borde Hill (0) An Award of Merit
form.
mekongense var. melinanthum
Trichoclada
Usually deciduous shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (June) are greenish
yellow to pale yellow. A late flowering variety with a limited
distribution in the wild. Found in scrub and on forest margins at
11,000 to 14,000 ft. NE Burma, China
77/714 (melinanthum) RBG (-5). Form with clear yellow
flowers.
80/159 (chloranthum) PM (-5)
mekongense var. rubrolineatum
Trichoclada
Usually deciduous shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (April) are creamy
yellow and rose-tinged. Found on forest margins, open pastures
and rarely in swamps at 11,000 to 14,000 ft. India, China
76/205 (rubrolineatum) RBG (0). Form with compact medium
growth and soft red bands along the light yellow flowers.
micranthum
Micrantha
Large vigorous evergreen shrubs. The flowers (late spring to
early summer) are milky-white in a many-flowered inflorescence
resembling that of a Ledum. A very distinct species, free-
flowering and hardy. Native to China and Korea where it occurs
in a wide range of habitats at elevations ranging from 5,200 to
10,500 ft. Hardy to (20 and possibly lower.
76/399 PTG (-20)
90sd003 Seedlings (grown from seed collected in Korea and sent
to us by the Korea Botanic Garden
481sd95 BJG#067:RSBG ((25?\R1\4). Grown from seed wild
collected on an expedition led by the U.S. National Arboretum.
microgynum
Neriiflora
Compact evergreen shrubs with splendid pale rose to deep crimson flowers
in mid-spring. The leaves are dark green with heavily-impressed veins
above and a dense cinnamon to buff indumentum beneath. This species
blooms at an earlier age and is usually easier in cultivation than most
of its relatives in subsection Neriiflora. An attractive species at its
best in partial shade. Native to China (NW Yunnan and SE Tibet) where
it grows in open pine forests, bamboo groves, and on boulder strewn
slopes from 12,000 to 14,000 ft.
68/212 (syn. gymnocarpum) EXB: PHB: JH: MVW (5 or (10?\R1\3). Deep
crimson flowers and leathery foliage with a dense
indumentum. AM 1940
74/027 ('gymnocarpum') F#14242:Windsor ('5\R1\3). Blood-red
flowers.
micromeres
Boothia
Epiphytic shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (May) are pale yellow or white.
A tender species very rare in cultivation. Found on mossy trunks
in rain forests from 8,000 to 14,000 ft. India, Bhutan, China
77/644 WEB (+25)
minus var. chapmanii
Caroliniana
Open-growing, occasionally upright but more typically sprawling and
stoloniferous evergreen shrubs. The leaves are elliptic to rounded
in shape and bullate ('puckered') on the upper surface. The flowers
are pink to rose in mid-spring. Quite heat and drought tolerant but
requiring exceptional drainage in cultivation. A very rare and
unusual species native to sand dunes and open pine woodlands in
Florida, USA.
76/016 Cline (0'\R2\2). Dense bright green foliage and a
sprawling but attractive habit on this clone. Almost like a
groundcover.
82/187 (chapmanii) NCSU (0?\R2\2). Form with pink flowers,
collected in Gulf CO. FL
82/189 (chapmanii) NCSU (0). Wild collected in Clay
County, Florida
310sd95 95ARS#259:RSBG (0?\R2\2). Grown from seed collected wild
in Gulf Co., Florida. 82/191 (chapmanii) NCSU (0) Wild
collected in Gulf Co. FL
minus var. minus
Caroliniana
Compact and rounded to upright evergreen shrubs. The funnel-shaped
flowers (mid- to late spring) are pink to purplish or white. An
extremely variable species in terms of growth habit, size and flower
shape. Probably most famous as one of the parents of the famous 'PJM'
grex of hardy lepidote hybrids. Valuable for its cold and heat
tolerance. Native to a wide variety of habitats in SE USA.
73/055 (carolinianum)'Epoch') AEK (-25). Form with soft
rose-pink flowers.
75/133 (carolinianum "album compactum") GAB ((25). A compact and
tight inflorescence("truss") of beautiful white flushed rose
flowers in this famous clone.
82/117 (carolinianum) DELP:RIN ((25). Large flowered form, white
flushed rose with magenta flecks.
76/086 CLI (-15). Form with late light rose flowers.
82/116 (carolinianum) GRI (-25)
82/190 NCSU (-25). Wild collected in Oconee CO., SC
83/009 NCSU (-15). Late pink form collected in Jackson Co.,NC
582sd1996 96ARS#345:RSBG ('15\R1\6'). Grown from seed
collected wild at 1,000 ft. in Fulton Co., Georgia.
167sd1999 (Carolinianum Group) SEH#1014:RSBG ('15\R1\4).
Grown from my collection of seed at 4,850 ft. in the southern
Appalachians of western North Carolina.
mitriforme JN#12376 This is a compact growing species with
small and shiny, rounded leaves and masses of small but showy,
flat flowers (late spring) ranging in color from white to pale
pink or deep rose, often with purple spots. Bright reddish-purple
new growth on this incredibly widespread and variable species.
Much hardier than would be expected based upon its native range
in southern China. These are grown from seed collected in the
wild. Similar in the garden to its close relative ovatum,
differing in botanical details. (+5\R1\2) RSBG#334sd2013
molle ssp. japonica
Pentanthera (Azalea)
Upright deciduous shrubs with colorful and often fragrant flowers
in mid-spring. The large brightly colored blossoms range in color
from orange, orange-red, red, scarlet and pink to deep yellow.
A reasonably heat and cold tolerant species with beautifully
colored fall foliage. One of the finest of the deciduous azaleas
with remarkably colored and attractive flowers. Native and common
over a wide area of Japan in various habitats and elevations.
77/035 (japonicum) GRA ((15). Vermillion flowers with gold flecks
in this clone.
80/091 R 11316 (USDA 59226): RBG (0). Light orange flowers.
81/030 (japonicum) USNA#45358:USNA ((15). Orange flowers with
darker flecks. Grown from seed collected in Seidagawa,
Kusumachi, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan.
231sd97 RSBG ((25?\R1\4). Seedlings from a hand-pollinated
cross here at the RSBG. Nice large bushy plants from 77/035
(saffron yellow) x 81/032 (USNA#45358, w.c. in Japan - salmon-pink
flushed apricot).
311sd1999 molle ssp. japonicum YK#1287:RSBG (-15\R1\4). Fantastic
deciduous azalea with large brightly colored flowers (mid-spring)
in shades of orange to yellowish or salmon. Great fall foliage color.
These are grown from seed collected wild at 4,600 ft. in Japan.
An easy and floriferous species tolerant of a wide range of conditions.
mollicomum
Scabrifola
Shrubs, 1 to 6 ft. Flowers (April) are pale to deep pink. Some
forms are rather tender and need winter protection. Found on dry
hillsides and forest margins at 10,000 to 12,500 ft. China
76/295 HLS (+10). Pink flowered form.
monanthum
Monantha
An exciting new dwarf species to cultivation! This is an epiphytic,
yellow-flowered lepidote which amazingly blooms in the autumn.
Quite distinct with a dwarf habit and glossy, gray-green obovate
leaves around one inch in length. The small tubular bell-shaped
flowers are deep yellow. Interestingly, this species, long known
to taxonomists and extremely common in the mountains along the
Yunnan/Burma border, was never introduced by the early plant
hunters. As an epiphyte, this species requires exceptionally
well-drained soil. Great in containers or hanging baskets in
areas with colder winters. Native to the N Burma/W Yunnan border
and adjacent areas of SE Tibet. Occurs in trees, and on old logs
and cliffs from 8,000 to 12,000 ft.
411sd1998 CCHH#8133:RSBG (0 to +5\R2\1). Grown from my
collection of seed at 8,500 ft. near the Burma border in
extreme NW Yunnan, China. A real collector's item and a very
attractive little species. Completely new and unrelated to
anything.
montroseanum
Grandia
Trees to 50 ft. Flowers (March) are pink with a crimson blotch at
the base. Thick and rigid leaves up to two feet long. Limited in
the wild. Found in subtropical mixed forests at 8,000 to 9,000
ft. China
74/004 ('Benmore') KW 6261A: RBG (+25). An award form with
pink flowers and a crimson blotch.
80/050 KW 6261A BH (+25). From seed collected in Tsangpo
Gorge by F. Kingdon Ward on his 1924-25 expedition to Tibet.
82/043 LAM: UBC (+25). From selfed seed collected from the
cultivar 'Benmore'
127sd2000 montroseanum RSBG (+10 to +5\R1\6). These are seedlings
grown from a controlled selfing of 1980/050 (KW#6261A). One of
the hardier big-leaf species. Bright pink to purple-pink flowers
in early spring.
morii
Maculifera
Shrubs or small trees, 15 to 25 ft. Flowers (April-May) are
white, usually with a red basal blotch and flecks. A common
undergrowth plant in conifer forests from 6,500 to 7,200 ft.
Taiwan
77/377 PAT: WWRC (0). From seed collected in Taiwan, a
selection with lively pink flowers.
79/114 W 10955: BH (0). White flowers with a red blotch.
moulmainense
Choniastrum
Shrubs or small trees, 5 to 50 ft. Fragrant, tubular funnel-
shaped flowers (March-April) are white, white flushed yellow or
pink, pink, magenta or lilac, with or without a yellow or pale
green blotch. The coriaceous leaves, elliptic to narrowly
elliptic, are bright green or olive-green and glossy. Found on
open hillsides in forests and thickets from 1,300 to 12,000 ft.
Widespread distribution in the wild: S China, (SE Tibet to
Guangdong), Taiwan, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia W Malaysia.
80/098 (syn. westlandii) RBG (+20). Lavender flowers, light
fragrance.
moupinense
Moupinensia
Low-growing evergreen shrubs with attractive smooth and peeling
reddish brown bark. The stiff ovate to elliptic leaves are shiny and
two inches long with a bristly petiole. The large and beautiful, funnel-
shaped flowers appear very early in the season and range in color from
white or white flushed rose to deep pink, often with reddish spots.
Red-bronze new growth adds additional appeal to this exquisite species.
Requires very well-drained soil but quite drought tolerant once well-
established. A personal favorite and one of the highlights of early
spring here at the RSBG. Native to SW China (C Sichuan to NE Yunnan
& Guizhou) where it occurs as an epiphyte or on cliffs from 6,500 to 10,800 ft.
69/109 JHC-MVW (0). White flowers flushed rose on the lobes
and with deep red flecks.
74/083 GLE (0). White flowers flushed rose on the lobes with
deep red flecks.
79/131 W#879:Glendoick (+5\R2\3). Large white flowers with
red flecks, one of the earliest clones to bloom in the garden. Very nice.
99/041 Sinclair (+5\R2\3). This clone with deep pink flowers
was selected from a batch of seedlings (93ARS#249) grown by June
Sinclair.
AC#1157 (+5\R2\3). These are cutting-grown from our original
seedlings of this unusual new collection. The leaves are smaller
and more rounded than on other forms I have seen. They are also
quite hairy. Nice white flushed rose flowers and a rather prostrate
habit so far. Very distinct new introduction of this well-known species
mucronulatum
Rhodorastra
Upright deciduous shrubs with pink to rose, red-purple, or white flowers
in late winter to mid-spring. A cold and heat tolerant species grown
for its typically early blooming season and bright fall foliage color.
Excellent in the woodland garden but also tolerant of much more exposed
sites. Found on dry stony slopes and forest margins from 1,000 to 5,500 ft.
Native over a wide area of E Asia from Siberia to Mongolia, China, Korea
and Japan.
73/193 'Cornell Pink' TIC-PHB (15\R1\6). An award form with very
early soft pink flowers and yellow orange autumn color. AM
1965
76/127 WEB (-15). Dwarf form collected on Cheju Island,
Korea with bright lavender-rose flowers.
76/408 Berg (15\R1\2). Rose-purple flowers on this dwarf
compact form.
77/661 'Winter Brightness' Windsor ('15\R1\6). Rich
purplish rose flowers in late winter to early spring on this
1957 FCC clone.
79/168 (89/011) 'Crater's Edge' WEB (-15). Collected on the
heights of Cheju Island, Korea. Very dwarf form with red-
lavender flowers.
81/020 'Mahogany Red' Wada - A. Kehr (15\R1\6). Typical
upright shrub form but with subdued watermelon red flowers.
82/205 Suzuki:Berg ('15\R1\6). This is our first offering of these
Japanese selections featuring semi-double flowers. We have small
numbers of several clones under different accession numbers which
will be substituted as dictated by demand. All are similar with
red-purple flowers.Very attractive and floriferous.
85/060 NA 55065-USNA (-15). From wild collections in Korea
on sunny hillsides.
87/023 Berg ('15\R1\6). A clone we received from Warren Berg
as one of his 'best colored forms' with bright red-purple flowers.
98/738 ('forma albiflorum') USNA ('15\R1\6). This is our first
offering of this pure white, large-flowered clone. Stunning.
238sd96 ("var. ciliatum") YK#1029:RSBG ((15\R1\6). Grown from seed
collected wild at 1,575 ft. from Mt. Shiradake, Tsushima Island,
Nagasaki Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan. Nice large plants.
172sd1998 HC#970291:RSBG ('15\R1\3'). Grown from seed collected
wild (as 'var. ciliatum') by Dan Hinkley on Cheju Island,
Korea at 4,840 ft. from compact plants with 'good fall color'.
These are fairly vigorous seedlings which should become a bit
more compact when planted in the garden as I am assuming they
are var. taquetii (syn: var. chejuense) the 'dwarf form' of
this species which occurs on this island.
183sd1998 ('var. ciliatum') HC#970406:RSBG ('15\R1\6). Grown
from seed collected wild by Dan Hinkley and Darrel Probst in
Korea from plants growing between 4,000 and 4,800 ft. in
elevation.
myrtifolium
Rhodendron
Dwarf shrubs seldom exceeding 2 ft. Flowers (May-June) are pink
or rarely white. A compact native of the Carpathian and Balkan
mountains in Hungry, Bulgaria, eastern Yugoslavia, Romania and
the Ukraine. Found mixed with pine scrub, on moorlands, and
occasionally on limestone from 5,000 to 7,500 ft. E Europe
73/159 (kotschyi) WW (-5)
82/135 Bremen Rhod. Park (-5). A white flowered form of this
dwarf species collected in Bulgaria.
nakaharae
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Prostrate creeping evergreen shrubs with brick-red to rose-red or
scarlet flowers in early to mid-summer. The attractive glossy and
rounded leaves have scattered long red-brown hairs. This popular
and hardy azalea with its uniquely-colored flowers is ideal for
extending the blooming season. An excellent groundcover in sun or
light shade, often used in hybridizing programs or bonsai. Found
in open grasslands and on sandstone rocks from 1,000 to 3,300 ft.
on the island of Taiwan.
73/195 GIG (-5). Pink-red flowers.
74/085 'Mariko' Hydon (-5). Very prostrate Japanese
selection with pink-red flowers in June. An award form.
75/267 'Mt. Seven Star' PH (-5). A distinctively better form
of this species with a denser habit and larger deep red
flowers.
neriiflorum ssp. neriiflorum
Neriiflora
A variable species ranging from compact and rounded evergreen
shrubs to small trees. Attractive smooth and peeling, pale brown
to tannish or red-brown bark. The leaves are smooth with a glaucous
white covering on the underside in most forms. The tubular bell-
shaped flowers (mid-spring) are typically bright red with a thick
and lustrous, waxy appearance. A very free-blooming and easily
grown species. Native over a wide area of W Yunnan and N Burma
where it occurs in various habitats from 7,000 to 11,000 ft.
74/025 'Rosevallon' CAE-FR (0). There is still debate
whether this is a true species or not, although some growers
say it does come true from seed. Bright red flowers and a
striking purplish-red underleaf.
83/110 ADM (+10)
488sd1998 CCHH#8220:RSBG (0\R1\4). Grown from my collection
of seed at 10,600 ft. on the Cang Shan of W Yunnan.
neriiflorum ssp. phaedropum
Neriiflora
This differs from subspecies neriiflorum in the longer and more
narrow leaves as well as in bearing glands on the ovary, calyx
and pedicel (ssp. neriiflorum lacks these glands). This subspecies
is native primarily to the west of ssp. neriiflorum occurring from
NW Yunnan west into N Burma, NE India (Arunachal Pradesh), SE Tibet
and central Bhutan. It is found in mountain forests from 6,500 to
11,000 ft. Quite rare in cultivation.
404sd1998 CCHH#8125:RSBG (+5\R1\4). Grown from my collection
of seed at 8,750 ft. near the border with Burma in NW Yunnan.
nipponicum
Viscidula (Azalea)
Upright deciduous shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (June) are greenish-
white with spots. Brilliant autumn color and reddish-brown
peeling bark. Native to deciduous forests and hillsides from
3,000 to 4,500 ft. Japan
73/197 UBC (0)
76/048 JHC (0)
nitidulum var. nitidulum
Lapponica
Upright shrubs to 4 ft. Flowers (April) are rosy-lilac to violet
purple. A dainty shrub with small leaves and 1-2 flowers per
truss. Found in alpine moorland from 10,000 to 16,000 ft. China
84/114 Glendoick (0).
nitidulum var. omeiense
Lapponica
Dwarf shrubs to 4 ft. Flowers (April) are rose-lilac to violet-
purple. This variety found only near the summit of Mt. Omei in
central Sichuan province. Grows on rocky slopes from 10,000 to
11,500 ft. China
84/114 GLE (0)
nivale ssp. boreale
Lapponica
Low compact shrubs rarely over 3 ft. Flowers (April) are bright
mauve to pale purple. Frequently collected with many forms in
cultivation. Found on open rocky slopes and swampy alpine
grasslands from 10,000 to 16,000 ft. China
66/576 (syn. stictophyllum) Wisely (-5). Small funnel shaped
mauve flowers.
76/300 (syn. violaceum) REU-VVN (-5). Form with purple
flowers.
79/141 (syn. stictophyllum) RBG (-5). Form with olive green
leaves and lavender flowers.
81/149 RBG (0)
nivale ssp. nivale
Lapponica
Low, compact shrubs rarely attaining 3 ft. Flowers (April) are
rich purple to magenta to lilac. Comes from the highest
altitudes of all rhododendrons. Native to open mountainsides and
screes 10,000 to 19,000 ft. Nepal, India, Bhutan, China
65/457 (syn. paludosum) WIS (-5). Form with purple-magenta
flowers and a more upright habit.
niveum
Arborea
Compact rounded evergreen shrubs with densely white felted branchlets.
The attractive foliage emerges silvery white or tannish and this is
retained as a dense woolly grayish to tan indumentum on the lower
surface. The amazing flowers (mid-spring) are unlike those of any
other species. They are borne in a dense and compact, rounded
inflorescence and are typically colored a shade of purple which has
been described as similar to 'grape Kool-Aid'. One of the 'classics'
in the genus with stunning foliage and flowers. Best in light shade.
One of the rarest species in the wild. Found only in a few isolated
populations in the eastern Himalayas (Sikkim & Bhutan). In forests
and on slopes from 10,000 to 12,000 ft.
65/345 STO (+10). Dense trusses of lavender-purple.
74/013 MBL (+10). Propagated from a selected seedling grown
from seed collected in Nepal.
75/115 WGB (+10). Purple flowers.
76/201 RBG (+10)
77/525 BERG (+10). "Kool-aid" purple flowers in this clone grown
from seed collected in Sikkim.
553sd1997 SEH#567:RSBG (0\R1\3). My own collection from 10,000 ft.
in the Sikkim Himalaya. A limited supply of this rarely offered
species. The real thing.
noriakianum
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Low shrubs to 3 ft. Flowers (May) are pale to deep purple or red.
A semi-deciduous rhododendron with an open growth habit. Found in
open forests and grasslands from 6,500 to 10,000 ft. Taiwan
78/036 HLL: UBCP (+10). Propagated from a selected seedling
grown from seed collected at Chi-Li-Ting, Taiwan.Lavender
flowers.
nudipes alliance
Brachycalyx
Upright deciduous shrubs (or small trees in the wild) with rhombic-
shaped leaves in whorls of three at the ends of the branches. The
flowers (early to mid-spring) are rose-purple and quite attractive.
Typically with good fall foliage color. These are good azaleas for
the woodland garden in warmer climates but do better with a little
more sun(heat) in cooler climates. These are seedlings grown from
seed collected wild as R. lagopus var. niphophilum, a taxon closely
related to the widespread species R. nudipes and hardly distinguishable
from it. I have chosen to accession them as "nudipes alliance" as
there is a great deal of confusion over the taxonomy and nomenclature
of this group of plants at the current time. This is our first
introduction of this taxon. Native to Japan from Honshu south.
252sd96 YK#0987:RSBG ((10?\R1\4). Grown from seed collected wild
as R. lagopus var. niphophilum at 220 ft. on Oki Island, Shimane
Prefecture, Honshu.
255sd96 YK#0999:RSBG ((5 to (10?\R1\4). Grown from seed collected
wild as R. lagopus var. niphophilum at 500 ft. on Oki Island,
Shimane Prefecture, Honshu.
nuttallii
Maddenia
Large, leggy evergreen shrubs or small trees with beautiful smooth
and peeling reddish brown bark. The new growth is typically silvery
red or purple. The impressive large leaves are elliptic in shape with
a deeply bullate upper surface. Both surfaces are densely scaly. It
is argued that the flowers of this species are the most magnificent
in the genus. They are funnel-bell-shaped and up to six inches long
and wide. These fragrant flowers (early to mid-spring) are white,
often flushed pink and with a yellow blotch in the throat. One of
the most spectacular plants in the genus (actually the entire plant
world), this species has everything - except hardiness. Limited to
greenhouse or container culture in all but the mildest climates.
Requires excellent drainage and frequent pinching as a young plant.
Common and widespread in the wild. Native from the extreme eastern
Himalayas to W Yunnan, China (and into N Vietnam'). Occurs primarily
as an epiphyte or on cliffs from 3,500 to 12,000 ft.
80/155 ('sinonuttallii') UBCBG (+25\R2\7). Typical white
flushed pink flowers with a yellow blotch.
00/024 'John Paul Evans' Enjoy (+25\R2\7). This well-known
clone was selected from the magnificent planting of this
species in the garden of Mr. and Mrs. Evans, Oakland,
California. Up to 12 large flowers per truss (typically less).
Probably the best clone grown in California.
369sd1998 CCHH#8077:RSBG (+25\R2\7). Grown from my collection
of seed at 6,550 ft. along the Yunnan/Burma border. Large rugose
leaves and bright fuchsia-pink new growth set with silver scales.
I was lucky enough to see these plants in full bloom in the spring
of 2000 in the same region and the flowers were stupendous. Each
fragrant flower was six inches long by six inches wide at the mouth.
White flushed pink with a yellow throat. Outstanding.
oblongifolium
Pentanthera (Azalea)
Broad shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (June) are white to pink and very
fragrant. Most forms are not completely hardy in northern
gardens. Found in sandy streamsides and moist slopes of plateaus
at low elevations. SE to Central N. America
76/280 Lynn Lowrie-"USNA (+10). Small white flowers and
light weight foliage, orange-red in fall. Wild collected in
Texas.
oblongilobatum
The first introduction into cultivation of the real oblongilobatum.
These are grown from seed collected in the wild from the type
location for this species in central Yunnan. Originally described
as a variety of the valentinianum complex (incl. valentinianum,
changii, valentinioides, etc.) in subsection Maddenia but the
flowers have a sharply deflexed style which places it in subsection
Boothia alongside species such as sulfureum and chrysodoron.
Beautiful, rounded and glossy leaves with hairy margins on
dwarf plants. Deep yellow flowers in mid-spring. NOTE: previously
offered as “valentinianum var. oblongilobatum” (+5\R2\2)
RSBG#213sd2012. JN#11080
obtusum
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
R. obtusum is no longer considered a valid name.Its forms are
believed to be cultivated varieties of R. kaempferi and R.
kiusianum or natural hybrids between these two species.
Upright dense shrubs, 6 to 8 ft. Flowers (April) are vivid
purplish-red. A vigorous grower and popular for bonsai. A natural
or garden hybrid associated with the Kurume Azalea hybrids. The
wild species Azalea obtusa introduced by Fortune in 1844 is
probably lost to commerce.
74/087 'Amoenum' HOI (0). Dense shrubs, spreading to 8 feet
or more. Vivid magenta flowers. A taller form with 'hose in
hose flowers.
78/106 FRY: LJ (0). Deep rose flowers.
occidentale
Pentanthera (Azalea)
Deciduous shrubs to 15 ft. Fragrant flowers (May-June) are
commonly white with a strong yellow flare, but may be pink, red,
yellow, orange-pink, or white tinged pink or red, and may have a
yellow, yellow-orange to orange-maroon, or maroon flare. Many
selected clones available showing the wide diversity of flower
color and shape. Red to coppery autumn color. Tolerates a
variety of habitat from moist edges of swamps to steep hillsides
up to 9,000 ft. California, Oregon.
74/090 SM 604: FM (-10)/ Pink flowers
76/049 'Leonard Frisbie' SM 232: BS (-10). Very large
fragrant frilled flowers, white suffused pink with a yellow
blotch.
77/379 SM 501: FM (-10).
77/382 SM 56: FM (-10).
77/383 'Stagecoach Cream' FM (-10). Flowers creamy white
with large orange-yellow upper petals. Propagated originally from
a plant found in Humboldt County, California.
77/385 SM 408: FM (-10). Deep pink flowers with an orange
flare. Propagated from a plant found in Del Norte, Calif.
77/388 SM#502:MOSS ((10). Flowers late with some red and/or picotee
in this clone collected in Humboldt County,
77/389 'Pistil Packin Mama' Howard Slonecker - FM (-10).
Though the name is facetious, these plants are all business. The
flowers are reduced to only the pistil with a small socket at
its base; a curiosity found in an island stand of the
Western azalea near Myrtle Creek, Oregon.
81/116 SM#245:SMI.B ((10).
88/041 'Gualala Bronze' Schick ('10\R1\4). This clone with
bronzy new growth was collected by Peter Schick in California.
I have not recorded flower data on this clone
89/020 SM 28-2: FM (-10). Hose-in-hose corolla.
347sd1999 99ARS#395:RSBG ('10\R1\4). Grown from seed collected wild
in Sonoma Co., CA. (as Bohemian#1901).
348sd1999 99ARS#393:RSBG ('10\R1\4). Grown from seed collected wild
in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Santa Cruz Co., CA. (as Big
Basin#1701).
49sd1999 occidentale 99ARS#397:RSBG (-10\R1\4). Deciduous azaleas with
large fragrant white flowers. These are marked or flushed with red,
pink, orange or yellow. Grown from seed collected wild in Mendocino
Co., CA.
ochraceum
Maculifera
Perhaps the most exciting new introduction in years! This little-
known and extremely rare species forms an upright evergreen shrub
or a small tree. The narrowly oblanceolate leaves are covered with
a pale orange-brown indumentum on the undersides. The petioles and
young stems are bristly and the plant looks rather like a cross
between R. strigillosum (with which it is closely related) and
R. griersonianum (of course it is not this cross). The bell-shaped
to funnel bell-shaped flowers are deep red with darker nectar
pouches and are similar to the flowers of R. strigillosum. This
species is considered by Chinese botanists to be one of the rarest
rhododendrons in China, with only a few remnant populations in
scattered isolated pockets of forest and steep limestone cliffs.
This seed was collected from the same site in which we found the
recently introduced R. huianum and R. asterochnoum. The
R. ochraceum occurred as a small population of plants growing in
a thick layer of moss on top of a giant limestone boulder in deep
shade. Native to S Sichuan and NE Yunnan, China.
428sd96 SEH#080:RSBG (+5?\R2\4-5). A plant for the serious
collector. Grown from seed collected wild at 9,500 ft.
in S Sichuan, China.
oldhamii
Tsutsusi (Azalea)
Upright to spreading shrubs with reddish glandular hairs densely
covering the branchlets. This evergreen azalea also has long reddish
hairs on the leaves for a very attractive and distinctive look. The
flowers (mid- to late spring) are large and funnel-shaped, brick-red
to coral-pink in color with spots. A very ornamental species with
large leaves and flowers for this section. Should be heat tolerant
but is not fully hardy even here at the RSBG (it has survived for
the past several years however). Best in light shade but tolerant of
sun. Native to Taiwan where it occurs from sea-level to 9,000 ft.
73/203 USDA 325036-USDA (+10). Stems and leaves covered with
soft hairs, flowers bright brick-red.
93/051 Wada:Berg (+5\R1\4). A good form which blooms sporadically
over a long season (almost year-round in Warren Berg's garden).
Typical and distinctively colored rose-red-pinkish flowers
(oldhamii red').
oligocarpum
Maculifera
A rarely grown member of subsection Maculifera. This species forms
a rounded shrub with smallish, rounded, ovate-elliptic leaves. The
bell-shaped flowers (mid-spring) open deep pink before fading to
pale pink and eventually white – all in the same inflorescence.
This multi-colored look is quite striking. Easy in light shade
and should have some heat tolerance as it is native to the
low-elevation mountains of central and southern China. From
wild-collected seed. (0\R1\4)
RSBG#161sd2010. CGG#14057
orbiculare ssp. orbiculare
Fortunea
Shrubs or small trees up to 10 ft. Flowers (April-May) are pink
to rose without flecks. A highly desirable and distinctive
species, with no close allies, combines rounded leaves, dome-
shaped habit and bell like flowers. Grows in evergreen forest and
rocky thickets from 8,000 to 13,000 ft. China
65/350 CAE (-5). Clear pink flowers.
66/542 RBG (-5). Spherical buds opening to rose-pink bells.
67/702 BOD (-5). An award form with rose pink flowers. AM 1922
130sd2000 orbiculare ssp. orbiculare RSBG (-5\R1\3). An amazing species
which forms a perfect rounded mound of large and smooth green round
leaves with a heart-shaped base. Clusters of pink to rose, bell-shaped
flowers in mid-spring. These are grown from a controlled cross-
pollination here in the RSBG between 1966/542 (RBG Edinburgh) x
1967/702 (the AM form (1922) from Bodnant).
Rarely offered due to difficulty of propagation. Best in light shade.
orbiculatum
Solenovireya (Vireya)
Shrubs or small trees to 10 ft. Flowers (January-December) are
white or pale pink and scented. Epiphytic in ridge forests or
terrestrial in low scrubby vegetation on bare sandstone rocks or
in elfin woodland on rugged hill crests at 2,600 to 5,700 ft.
Borneo, Brunei
83/070 PS (+32). Flowers are white with pink.
oreodoxa var. fargesii
Fortunea
Large upright and wide-spreading evergreen shrubs or small
trees. The flowers (early to mid-spring) are white or white
flushed pink to rose, often with darker flecks. Beautiful and
hardy, this is a very free-flowering and easily cultivated
species. An excellent specimen plant and perfect for the
woodland garden. Distinguished from var. oreodoxa by its
glandular ovary. Native to China (NW Yunnan, Sichuan, Gansu,
Shaanxi & Hubei) where it grows in forests from 7,000 to 13,500 ft.
62/046 (erubescens) RBG: MVW (-5). Form with early March
delicate pink flowers, almost red in bud.
65/308 (fargesii) CRA (-5). Form with rose-pink flowers.
75/316 (erubescens) CHP (-5). Form with pink flowers.
83/155 WIND ((15?\R1\4).
oreodoxa var. oreodoxa
Fortunea
Shrubs or small trees, 7 to 17 ft. Flowers (March) are pale rose
to deep pink with or without flecks. A hardy species native to
woodlands and forests at 8,500 to 13,500 ft. China
77/749 WGP (-5)
80/121 HER (-5). Flowers pale pink with profuse darker
flecks on the upper lobe.
82/152 AO-FBG (-10). Form with deep pink flowers.
oreotrephes
Triflora
Upright to rounded evergreen (occasionally semi-deciduous) shrubs
typically with glaucous green or blue-green leaves. The beautiful
widely funnel-shaped flowers (mid-spring) are white, pink, rose or
purple, often with spots. An easily grown and free-flowering
species with outstanding foliage and flowers in most cultivated
forms. A common, widespread and variable species native to N Burma
and China (SE Tibet, N Yunnan & Sichuan). It occurs in a wide
variety of habitats from 9,000 to 14,000 ft.
66/625 F#20489:WIND ((10?\R1\6). White flushed rose-purple
flowers ("pale mauve") with green-gold flecks. Blue-green leaves
70/054 ES (0). Form with rose-lavender flowers.
73/211 (exquisitum) EXB:ROBB (0). Flowers pastel rose-purple.
75/296 Barto - CHP (0).
76/335 CHP (0). Form with white flowers.
77/776 CRA (0). Form with white flowers.
80/122 HER (0). Form with very good glaucous new growth.
87/005 RCH (0). Form with white flowers.
RSBG#203sd2003. RR#038
orthocladum var. microleucum
Lapponica
Compact mounding shrubs to 2 ft. Flowers (April-May) are pure
white. Known only in cultivation as a white variety. (No known
wild population)
77/216 (microleucum) JHC (-5). Dwarf mounding plant with
dark green leaves and white flowers in April.
orthocladum var. orthocladum
Lapponica
Bushy upright shrubs to 4 ft. Flowers (April) are pale to deep
lavender-blue to purple. This species given the epithet 'with
straight twigs' by George Forrest who introduced it into
cultivation in 1913. Found in alpine meadows, on ledges of
limestone cliffs, and pine forest margins from 8,000 to 14,000
ft. China
75/273 UW - DG (0)
83/141 F 20493: RBG 712537-RBG (0)
ovatum
Azaleastrum
Bushy shrubs, 3 to 12 ft. Flowers (April) are pure white, pink to
purple or lavender with pink or deep crimson spots. Those
specimens formerly identified as R. Bachii have been reclassified
and merged with R. ovatum. Found on forest margins, in dense
thickets, and on open slopes from 1.500 to 6,500 ft. Native from
the Chinese province of Anhui southward to Guangdong and west
into Sichuan and on the central mountain range of Taiwan.
76/050 Gable - VVN (-5). Light pink 1" saucers for flowers.
79/157 (syn. bachii) UCB (+15). Light lavender flowers.
81/146 BOD (-5). White flowers.
82/012 W 1391: PRT (0).
RSBG#200sd2015 H2MD#140
pachypodum
Maddenia
Compact to open-growing evergreen shrubs with peeling reddish
brown bark. The leaves are quite variable in shape with a dense
layer of scales beneath. The large openly funnel-shaped flowers
are white to white flushed pink or rose, typically with a yellow
to brownish blotch and can be quite spectacular. This species is
closely related to the well-known R. ciliicalyx and includes the
former species scottianum & supranubium. Requires excellent
drainage in cultivation. Native to Upper Burma and China (W
Yunnan & Guangdong) where it occurs in various open and well-
drained habitats from 6,000 to 12,000 ft.
87/055 F.007516 - RBG (+25)
257sd97 AC#1993:RSBG (+15?\R2\4). Grown from seed collected
wild in China.
pachysanthum
Maculifera
Compact rounded evergreen shrubs. The flowers (early to mid-spring)
are white to pale pink, often with crimson or green flecks. One of
the finest foliage plants in the genus. Indumentum color ranges from
silver-white to a rich brown (when grown in shade) on the upper
surface, rusty brown on the underside. A hardy and adaptable garden
plant which should be in every collection. Found on exposed grassy
ridges from 10,000 to 10,500 ft. on the island of Taiwan.
78/064 Patrick - WEB (0)
91/039 BERG (0). Selected seedling grown from Cox seed.
97/096 Zimmerman ('10\R1\3). These are cutting grown from a
seedling grown from hand-pollinated seed produced by Peter Cox
from his planting of the original John Patrick collection.
574sd1996 96ARS#212:RSBG ('10\R1\3). Grown from seed from a
controlled pollination cross between two excellent clones in
the garden of Mrs. June Sinclair.
pachytrichum
Maculifera
Shrubs or small trees to 20 ft. Flowers (March-April) are white
suffused pink, with a purple basal blotch and flecks. Found in
woods and open slopes at 8,000 to 11,500 ft. China.
65/389 'Sesame' BOD:UBCP ((5). Flowers rose in bud opening to
white flushed pink in this AM form (1963).
70/191 W#1435:LAM ((5). Pastel-rose flowers with a burgundy blotch
76/164 BOD (-5). Form with pink flowers.
78/064 PAT-WEB (-5)
175sd2000 DJHC#806:RSBG (-5\R1\5). Large shrubs closely related to
the well known red-flowered R. strigillosum. This species differs
in its more furry and less bristly stems and petioles and in its
pink to white flowers. These are grown from seed collected wild in
China by Dan Hinkley (as strigillosum) and appear to be what is
known as "var. monosematum" which is an intermediate between the two
species under discussion here. Probably with pink flowers in early
spring. Rarely offered and very attractive plants. Best in light shade.
parmulatum
Neriiflora
Upright growing rounded dwarfish evergreen shrubs. The attractive
foliage is shiny with deeply impressed veins on the upper surface,
smooth and somewhat glaucous on the lower. The tubular bell-shaped
flowers (early to mid-spring) are remarkably variable in color,
ranging from white to yellow, pink or red, often bicolored and
usually spotted, often heavily. An extremely attractive plant in
foliage and flower and one rarely seen in cultivation. Requires
excellent drainage and light shade. Native only to the Pemako
region of S Tibet where it occurs on rocks and cliffs and in other
well-drained situations from 10,000 to 12,000 ft.
74/017 ROBB (0)
82/047 'Ocelot' TREM:UBCBG ((5\R1\3). Yellow-green flowers
with a darker band on each lobe and heavy gray-purple spotting
in the upper throat on this 1977 AM form. Rarely offered
collector's plant.
pauciflorum
Euvireya (Vireya)
Low tropical shrubs to 3 ft. Flowers (flowering time varies) are
rose to bright red. Only 1 or 2 flowers per truss, but a fairly
reliable bloomer. Native to the Malay Peninsula and found in rain
forests, sometimes as an epiphyte at 4,500 to 7,000 ft. Malaysia
83/067 PS (+32)
pemakoense
Uniflora
A low-growing, mound-forming and often stoloniferous evergreen shrub.
The funnel-shaped flowers (early spring) are pink to pale pink-purple
and quite large compared with the glossy dark green foliage. A densely
branched, floriferous and easily grown species. Native to a small area
of SE Tibet and adjacent NE India (Arunachal Pradesh) where it occurs
from 10,000 to 12,000 ft. on mossy rocks and steep open slopes.
70/042 Robbins (0\R1\2). Pastel rose-purple flowers.
pendulum
Edgeworthia
Dwarf evergreen shrubs with a compact to rather open and upright habit.
The branchlets and new growth are covered with a dense wooly indumentum.
The small oblong-elliptic leaves are smooth on the upper surface and
covered with a thick buff indumentum on the lower. The small openly
funnel bell-shaped flowers are white to cream, often flushed with pink
and with a reddish calyx. A strikingly handsome foliage plant that is
unfortunately rather difficult to grow well. Best in a log or stump with
plenty of moisture or in containers with an exceptionally well-drained
media. Very choice dwarf species. Native in the eastern Himalayas from
E Nepal to S Tibet and Bhutan. Occurs as an epiphyte or on cliffs and
boulders from 7,500 to 12,000 ft.
76/141 LS&T 6660: RBG (+10). Form with white flowers.
93/053 BB#8831:Berg (0\R3\2). This clone grown from seed collected
wild by Warren Berg at 11,600 ft. on the Ura La, Bhutan.
99/527 BB#8831:Berg (0\R3\2). Another clone from the seed
collection mentioned above. I have not seen either clone in flower.
peregrinum
Falconera
Omitted, possible hybrid of R. galactinum (or a variation H Eiberg)
Shrubs or small trees up to 10 ft. Flowers (March-April) are
cherry-scarlet to deep rose crimson. Only known in cultivation.
Included for historical interest.
65/316 LAM (0). Flowers are white with bright red blotches.
RSBG#1965/316. Wilson#4254
periclymenoides
Pentanthera (Azalea)
Large upright growing and graceful deciduous shrubs. The flowers
(mid- to late spring) are pale to deep pink or white with dark
purple tubes. A very hardy species with attractive leaf coloration
in the fall and delicate, brightly-colored flowers which can light
up the woodland garden. Many forms are sweetly fragrant like
honeysuckle. Native to damp stream banks and dry, rocky wooded
slopes up to 4,000 ft. in E USA.
(syn. nudiflorum)
76/292 KWG (-25). Collected by Ken Gambrill in Howard
County, Maryland. Flowers shaded from rose-pink flaring
petals to maroon-pink corolla tube.
76/293 'Doughoregan' KWG (-25). Wild collected in Howard
County, Maryland. More uniformly pure pink flowers appearing
several weeks later than average, and with a lower growing
habit of under three feet.
80/013 CT (-25). Wild collected in South Carolina.
82/023 NN (-25). Wild collected near Branford,
Connecticut.
90sd004 (nudiflorum) Seedlings ( grown from seed collected at
Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve, Washington Crossing,
Pennsylvania.
101sd95 RSBG ((15?\R1\5). Grown from seed collected wild in
Connecticut from a plant with large and flat, near white flowers.
114sd95 RSBG ((15?\R1\5). Grown from seed collected wild in
Connecticut from a plant with pink flowers and twisted petals.
115sd95 RSBG ((15?\R1\5). Grown from seed collected wild in
Connecticut from a plant with dark pink flowers.
117sd95 RSBG ((15?\R1\5). Grown from seed collected wild in
Connecticut from a plant with dark pink flowers and a white blotch.
petrocharis
Moupiensa
A choice dwarf species that seems to be an intermediate
between its close relatives moupinense and dendrocharis.
In habit, foliage and flower it is much smaller than the first
and a bit larger than the second. Small and rounded, shiny and
hairy leaves. The flowers are very similar to the familiar
moupinense but a bit smaller – pale pink in this form which
is a different clone than we have sold in the past. A stunning
dwarf species that requires excellent drainage. (+5\R2\2)
RSBG#2013/276. GUIZ#120
phaeochitum
Phaeovireya (Vireya)
Epiphytic shrubs to 3 ft. Flowers (April-December) are pink to
deep red. Found as an epiphyte or sometimes terrestrial on ridges
at 7,000 to 8,400 ft. Papua New Guinea
78/100 DS: FM (+32)
phaeochrysum var. agglutinatum
Taliensia
Usually compact shrubs, 3 to 12 ft. Flowers (March-April) are
white to creamy-white or pale rose. Very common and widespread
among open forests and stony pastures from 11,000 to 12,000 ft.
China
77/653 (syn. agglutinatum) R 11335: WGP (0). White flowers.
80/070 (syn. agglutinatum) LS&E 15763: CH (0).
363sd1997 phaeochrysum var. agglutinatum JN#586:RSBG (-15\R3\4).
Compact shrubs with stout branches and very attractive foliage
with fawn indumentum on the lower surface. White to pinkish flowers
with spots. Grown from seed collected wild by Jens Nielsen at 12,500 ft.
near Zhongdian, NW Yunnan, China. Nice large plants.
phaeochrysum var. phaeochrysum
Taliensia
Compact evergreen shrubs to small trees with rough flaking bark.
A common, widespread and incredibly variable species in the wild.
The leaves have an attractive agglutinated to felted, pale brown
to deep red-brown indumentum on the lower surface. The upper
surface is generally a deep shiny green. The flowers (mid-spring)
are white to pink and spotted. This is a species seldom seen under
the correct name in cultivation. It can be difficult if not given
a cool position with excellent drainage but makes an outstanding
ornamental plant with age. Native to SW China (Sichuan, Yunnan & SE
Tibet) where it occurs in a wide variety of habitats from 10,000 to
15,500 ft. One of the most common species in the wild.
71/509 (dryophyllum) F.29327 - Windsor - UBC PP (0)
75/203 HIL-WA (0). Flowers white flushed pink.
79/139 RBG (0). Form with white flowers.
80/048 ('dryophyllum') F#21400:Borde Hill ('10\R3\4). This
is now referable to var. phaeochrysum.
265sd1997 phaeochrysum AC#1772:RSBG (-15\R3\4). As above. This species
is relatively tolerant of dry soils once established. Best in light
shade or morning sun. Requires excellent drainage. From seed
collected wild in China.
487sd1997 BH#033:RSBG ('10\R3\4). These are vigorous
seedlings with beautiful foliage grown from seed collected
wild in NW Yunnan Province, China. Probably referable to var.
phaeochrysum.
phaeopeplum
Phaeovireya (Vireya)
Upright tropical shrubs. Flowers (flowering time varies) are pale
pink with darker lobes and scented. Very dark and numerous scales
and soft new growth on a plant popular with hybridizers. Native
to Papua New Guinea at around 4,000 ft.
83/065 PS (+32). Pale pink scented flowers.
pianensis
(Unclassified)
79/088 AEK (+10). Collected in the wild on the island of
Taiwan.
piercei
Neriiflora
Compact to rather open-growing, wide-spreading evergreen shrubs.
The beautiful foliage is dark shiny green and heavily veined on
the upper surface, covered with a thick and woolly orange-brown
indumentum beneath. The tubular bell-shaped flowers (early to
mid-spring) are crimson to scarlet. A spectacular plant, blooming
well even in shade. Closely related to R. beanianum but usually
much more attractive and easier to grow. Known only from one area
of SE Tibet where it occurs from 12,000 to 13,000 ft.
76/210 RBG (+5\R1\3). Open trusses of pure scarlet flowers
pictured on the cover of ARS Bulletin Fall 1976.
pingianum
Argyrophylla
Rounded evergreen shrubs with white tomentose branches. The leaves
have a white compacted indumentum on the lower surface. The flowers
(mid-spring) are pink to pale purple in a somewhat flat-topped and
loose truss which is none-the-less quite attractive. This species
is closely related to argyrophyllum but is comparatively rare in
cultivation. Should be quite hardy. Native to central Sichuan,
China where it occurs in forests from 6,500 to 9,000 ft.
79/161 Hu#8199:UWA ('5\R1\4). Elegant rose flowers.
Shrubs or small trees, 12 to 25 ft. Flowers (April-May) are pink
to pale purple. Limited distribution in the wild. Found in
forests and on mountain slopes from 6,500 to 9,000 ft. China
platypodum
Fortunea
This is a stunning foliage plant with equally magnificent flowers
and is sure to shake up the rhododendron world once collectors and
hybridizers get their hands on it. The large and almost round,
extremely thickly textured leaves on very short, flattened petioles
are so amazing that we actually take tours through the nursery
just to show them these young plants. Large upright inflorescences
of light to deep pink flowers in late April to early May. These
are grown from seed collected in the wild and represent a different
collection than the one we have been selling these past few years.
A very rare rhododendron in the wild this can be considered the
northern cousin of the recently introduced R. yuefengense,
differing in its larger leaves and overall growth habit and
its darker flowers four or five weeks earlier in the season. (0?\R1\4)
RSBG#235sd2012. JN#11030
pleistanthum
Triflora
Shrubs, 2 to 15 ft. Flowers (April) are white, or white flushed
with pink or lilac often with spots of yellow or red. A
geographically distinct species not common in cultivation. Found
at forest margins and mixed thickets at 6,000 to 14,000 ft. China
80/094 RBG (+10). Flowers white flushed pink.
pocophorum var. pocophorum
Neriiflora
Shrubs, 2 to 10 ft. Flowers (March-April) are light to deep
crimson. Thick leathery leaves are covered below with a heavy
indumentum. Found in thickets and open rocky slopes at 12,000 to
15,000 ft. NE India, China
75/055 KW 8289: NYM (+5). Early April flowers are deep red
and fleshy.
poilanei CDHM#14725
Vireya
First introduction into cultivation. This is another of the
mainland Asian species of vireya which grow together with other
hardy species and familiar trees and shrubs such as oaks and maples.
This is an almost prostrate species that grew on vertical cliff
faces and has the strangest growth habit (for a vireya) of growing
along the top of the container – both above and below
the soil line - and popping up and out on the edges (like a groundcover).
Tiny glossy leaves and deep yellow single flowers. Should have
some hardiness. (+15?\R2\6 inches)
RSBG#174sd2012
polycladum
Lapponica
Upright dwarf shrubs to 4 ft. Flowers (April) are lavender to
rich purple-blue. Among the nearest to true blue of all
rhododendrons. Free flowering and very popular. Found at forest
margins and cliffs at 10,000 to 14,000 ft. China
73/252 (syn. scintillans) FR-PHB (-10). Form with lavender
flowers.
73/253 (syn. scintillans) ACL (-10). Form lavender flowers.
polylepis
Triflora
Upright growing evergreen shrubs with densely scaly branchlets.
The narrow leaves are lanceolate to oblanceolate with a dark shiny
green upper surface and a densely scaly lower. The widely funnel-
shaped flowers (mid-spring) are pale to deep purple or rose-mauve
and typically have some yellowish spotting. A rarely grown species
which has been reintroduced recently. Common in a wide variety of
habitats from 6,500 to 10,000 ft. in W Sichuan, China.
75/216 POR ((10?\R1\5). Red-purple buds open to rose-purple
flowers. A collector's species.
polytrichum
Maculifera
A newly introduced species that appears to be quite rare in the wild.
This is a strong grower so far in the nursery and will probably be
a very large plant in the garden. Jens Nielsen, who has seen it
in the wild, called it a “great beast of a plant” and thinks it
might be a link between Subsection Maculifera and Subsection
Fortunea. Very large and hairy leaves (almost bristly looking –
very different from anything else that I have seen). Supposedly
with rose-colored flowers but well worth growing for the foliage
alone. Best in light shade or woodland conditions. Our first
offering. (-5\R1\5)
RSBG#233sd2013. JN#12380
ponticum
Pontica
Large vigorous evergreen shrubs with smooth green leaves. The
flowers (late spring to early summer) are purple, red-purple,
lavender, pink, or mauve, rarely white flushed pink, often with
yellow, green-yellow, or brown flecks. Found in mixed forests
and thickets in wooded valleys from sea level to 6,000 ft. Native
to Spain, Portugal, SE Bulgaria, N Turkey, SW Russia, Georgia,
and Lebanon.
78/056 'Cheiranthifolium' PHET ((5\R1\8). Light purple flowers
with unusually narrow strap-like leaves.
79/001 'Variegatum' VMP: SKI (0). Dark green leaves with
variegated leaf edges on this form with lavender flowers.
79/130 AC&H: GLE (0). Form with pale pink flowers.
praestans
Grandia
The distinct foliage of this big-leaf is very attractive and cannot
be confused with any other species. The flowers (early spring) are
white to pink or magenta-rose, usually with spots and/or a blotch.
Best in light shade and very hardy for a big-leaf. Grown from seed
collected in the wild. Unique, shiny and “coppery” plastered
indumentum on the lower surface of the leaves which have a broadly
winged and tapering petiole. Highly recommended. (-5\R1\4)
RSBG#166sd2011. KR#9951
praeteritum
Fortunea
Shrubs to 12 ft. Flowers (March-April) white flushed pink to pale
pink, with purple flecks. An aberrant member of subsection
Fortunea, possibly a hybrid of R. oreodoxa. Original collection
by Wilson in China
75/075 WAK (-5). Form with light p[ink flowers.
praetervisum
Euvireya (Vireya)
Tropical shrubs to 6 ft. Flowers (variable flowering time) are
pink to violet, very long and trumpet-shaped with three to seven
very lax trusses. These flowers are pollinated in the wild by
birds, called Whitehead's Spiderhunters, with long curved beaks.
Found on the island of Borneo and native to rain forest from
3,600 to 6,000 ft. Indonesia, Malaysia
87/045 RBG 792882: CLL (+32)
praevernum
Fortunea
Large evergreen shrubs with a wide-spreading habit, often wider than
tall but can become tree-like. The relatively large leaves complement
the large and showy flowers in early spring. These are white to pink
or rose with a prominent purplish blotch at the base. Similar and
closely related to the well-known sutchuenense but with a blotched
corolla and hairless lower leaf surface. Best in light shade and very
hardy. Native to China (W Hubei & E Sichuan) where it occurs
in forests from 5,250 to 8,250 ft.
82/008 BRO: LB (-10). Flowers pink with a purple blotch.
252sd1997 RSBG ('15\R1\4). A small supply of seedlings this
year grown from hand-pollinated seed produced here in the
garden (1966/563 (Windsor form) selfed).
primuliflorum
Pogonanthum
Typically low-growing and compact evergreen shrubs but can be
somewhat upright and leggy. The tiny fragrant leaves are densely
covered with fawn to dark brown scales on the underside. The small
tubular flowers are white to deep pink and arranged in daphne-like
clusters. A widespread and extremely variable alpine species which
makes a choice addition to the rock garden. Prefers full sun and
is relatively drought tolerant once well-established. Common in a
variety of montane and alpine habitats from 11,000 to 15,000 ft.
in China (N Yunnan, S Tibet, N; W Sichuan Gansu').
77/603 GLE:BERG ((5\R2\2). Beautiful rose-pink flowers, one of
our finest forms. (primuliflorum var. cephalanthoides)
77/715 RBG (0). Form with pink flowers.
95/077 'Doker La' Glendoick ('10\R2\2). Beautiful deep rose
flowers on this Award of Merit clone.
principis
Taliensia
Large rounded evergreen shrubs or small trees. An attractive plant
with a unique thick and spongy silvery white to fawn indumentum on
the lower side of the leaves. The flowers (early spring) are white
to white flushed pink to rose, often with darker spots. One of the
largest and more easily grown members of this subsection. Found
only in S Tibet where it is common in a variety of habitats from
9,000 to 15,000 ft.
65/282 (vellereum) BH (0). Form with light pink flowers in
April and dense thick light butter colored indumentum.
473sd1999 CHC#8541:RSBG ('5\R1\4). Grown from my collection of
seed at 13,000 ft. near the Sur La in SE Tibet.
prinophyllum
Pentanthera (Azalea)
Large deciduous shrubs with brightly colored foliage in the autumn.
The pale to deep pink flowers appear before or just with the leaves
in early to mid-spring and are extremely fragrant. One of our finest
native azaleas. Occurs in bogs and on open wooded slopes, bluffs
and stream banks from 500 to 5,000 ft. Native in the NE USA south
to North Carolina and west to Oklahoma.
78/032 (roseum 'Marie Hoffman') GLM (-25). Very fragrant.
Larger flowers than typical and possibly a natural hybrid.
80/026 (roseum) AA (-25). Pink flowers.
226sd1998 98ARS#557:RSBG ('25\R1\5). These are grown from
seed collected wild in the Dolly Sods of West Virginia. This
population contains the finest forms of this species with the
largest flowers that I have seen in the wild. Beautiful.
pronum
Taliensia
Dwarf mounding shrubs which can reach 2 ft. Flowers (April) are
white or pale yellow with purple flecks. Very slow growing and
compact. This distinct species has always been very rare in
cultivation and reluctant to flower. Found in open rocky pastures
12,000 to 14,000 ft. China
74/041 GF 26: WGP (-5). Attractive blue-green leaves.
74/047 WEB (-5). Attractive blue-green leaves.
proteoides
Taliensia
Extremely slow-growing and dwarf evergreen shrubs. Like a tiny
version of R. roxieanum with a thick woolly, reddish brown
indumentum on the underside of the leaves. The attractive new
growth is heavily indumented on both surfaces. The white to
cream flushed rose and spotted flowers typically take years to
appear. Forms a round dense mound when well grown and
considered by many collectors to be the most choice (and
difficult!) dwarf or alpine species. Requires a highly organic
but extremely well-drained soil in a cool but bright position
for successful cultivation. Native to steep slopes and cliffs
from 12,000 to 15,000 ft. in China (SE Tibet, NW Yunnan & SW
Sichuan).
74/118 ROBB:BRY ((10\R3\8 inches). This clone a Rock#. Grafts.
75/236 Greig:Berg (- 10\R3\8 inches). This clone a Rock# with
longer and more narrow leaves.
protistum (syn: giganteum)
One of the largest of all rhododendrons, this big-leaf species has
immense leaves and flowers. The latter are rose to crimson-purple,
appearing in late winter to early spring. Grown from seed collected
in the wild. The real thing, forms a large tree eventually
(in mild climates). (+15\R1\7)
RSBG#520sd2000. BASE#9635
pruniflorum
Glauca
Small compact evergreen shrubs with smooth and peeling dark brown
bark. The leaves are whitish on their lower sides with brown scales.
The flowers (mid-spring) are dull crimson to plum-purple and shaped
like little flattened bells. Good in partially shaded or even woodland
conditions. A sweet little species rarely seen in cultivation, closely
related to R. charitopes. Native to NE India (Arunachal Pradesh),
Upper Burma and adjacent areas of SE Tibet where it occurs in forests
and on rocky slopes from 8,000 to 13,000 ft.
66/676 (tsangpoense var. pruniflorum) WW (0). Form with
dusky purple flowers.
74/024 ('Hohman') USNA (-5) Selected orange-red form.
76/281 HTS 1111K - USNA (-5). Wild collected in Henery Co., AL
80/138 (tsangpoense var. pruniflorum) TRG (0). Form with
lavender flowers.
92/013 KW#7038:Leonardslee (+5\R1\3). I have not recorded the
flowering data on this clone but I believe this has flowers more
in the plum-purple range. Our first offering of this clone.
prunifolium
Pentanthera (Azalea)
Deciduous shrubs to 15 ft. or more. Flowers (July-August) are
red-orange to vivid red or scarlet, occasionally light orange or
yellow. Very late flowering and takes more shade than most
deciduous azaleas. Extremely variable in flower color, even on
the same plant and from year to year. Rare in the wild, native to
moist ravines and pine forests in a very restricted area of low
elevation. SE USA
74/024 'Hohman' USNA (-5). Selected orange-red form.
76/281 HTS 1111K: NA 13190-USNA (-5). Wild collected in
Henry County, Alabama.
pseudochrysanthum
Maculifera
Mounding or upright evergreen shrubs with attractive rigid foliage.
The newly emerged leaves are covered with a thin gray indumentum which
sometimes persists on the upper surface and edges. The flowers (mid-
spring) are white, white flushed pink, or pink, often with deeper
colored lines on the outside and crimson flecks. A superb and easily
grown garden plant which can be quite dwarf and slow-growing depending
upon the clone. Relatively cold and heat tolerant. A common species
from 6,000 to 13,000 ft. on the island of Taiwan where it is found in
woodlands and on gravelly slopes, often above timberline.
73/410 USDA 325054 (-5). Dwarf compact plant with white
flowers and small leaves reddish on the undersurface.
75/076 W#10928:WAK ((5). Flowers white, slightly flushed rose
with magenta spots on upper lobe.
75/189 'Exbury Form' Smith ('10'\R1\3). White flushed rose
flowers with magenta flecks on this vigorous 1956 Award of Merit form.
pubescens
Scabrifolia Shrubs to 4 ft. Foliage very narrow and hairy. Flowers
(March-April) rose-pink. Native to N Yunnan and SW Sichuan, China in
open rocky places and scrub from 9,500 to 10,000 ft. Formerly a
synonym of R. spiciferum.
00/114 'Fine Bristles' KW#3953:WIND ((5). Flowers white flushed
rose in this 1955 AM form.
RSBG#232sd2013. JN#12253
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