Rhododendron japonicum (Ericaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Rhododendron japonicum
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Rhododendron japonicum plant species is found in E. Asia - Japan. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Some home gardeners know the variety as R. metternichii. Sieb.&Zucc.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Rhododendron japonicum
Family:  Ericaceae
Author:  (Bl.)Schneid.

Known Hazards:  Although no specific mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where many members have poisonous leaves. The pollen of many if not all species of rhododendrons is also probably toxic, being said to cause intoxication when eaten in large quantities[183].

Mature Height:  2   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Dense woods in mountains in C. and S. Japan, to 1800 metres[11, 58].

Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in a most humus-rich lime-free soils except those of a dry arid nature or those that are heavy or clayey[1]. Prefers a peaty or well-drained sandy loam[1]. Succeeds in sun or shade, the warmer the climate the more shade a plant requires[200]. A pH between 4.5 and 5.5 is ideal[1]. This species is closely related to R. molle and perhaps not distinct from it[200]. Succeeds in a woodland though, because of its surface-rooting habit[200], it does not compete well with surface-rooting trees[1]. Plants need to be kept well weeded, they dislike other plants growing over or into their root system, in particular they grow badly with ground cover plants, herbaceous plants and heathers[200]. Plants form a root ball and are very tolerant of being transplanted, even when quite large, so long as the root ball is kept intact[200]. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

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