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In Praise of Rhododendrons

In Praise of Rhododendrons

Rhododendron group

Rhododendrons have many praiseworthy characteristics.

Why Grow Rhododendrons

  • They are some of the most colourful spring and early summer flowering shrubs. Red, white and blues with yellows, pinks and shades to suit all tastes.
  • Rhododendrons are generally evergreen and provide structure through the year.
  • Modern hybrids are easy to maintain, slow to outgrow their allocated space and need little attention.
  • There are 1000 species to select and learn about. Prostrate and miniature rhododendrons suit a rock garden whilst some varieties can fill a woodland.
  • Scented Rhododendrons are shorter lived but have great aroma.

Where to See Rhododendrons

Book Cover

Book Cover

Further information

Early Rhododendrons

Housekeeping for small Rhododendrons

Favourite Camellias

Favourite Camellias

As in the depth of winters we know that bright colourfull Camellia shrubs and small trees will soon burst forth.

Camellias are by nature evergreen woodland shrubs or small trees. They prefer an acid, leafy soil and some shade and protection from early morning sun for the flower buds. The flowers are classed in various forms including single, semi double, Peony form, Anemone form, Rose form or Formal double. My own semi- double white camellia catches the early frost and turns brown but the profusion of buds still make a great show.

camellia-japonica

Waxy flowers of Camellia ‘Satans Robe’ and the even more waxy leaves of the camellias are one of the early joys in the spring garden. There is a range of camellias to suit most conditions and if you can’t find the lime free soil most varieties need they will grow in a pot of ericaceous compost.  Flowers vary in size up to 5 inches across in yellow, red, white and pink.

Some Camellia Species

  • Camellia Japonica, Sasanqua and Reticulata have special sections with some of the best varieties described or selected below

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