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Rhododendron kaempferi Evergreen shrub (1 Page of 5) The Rhododendron kaempferi plant species is found in E. Asia - Japan. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Rhododendron kaempferi Family: Ericaceae Author: Planch. 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: 2.5 Mature Width: 2.5 Habitat: Open woods and scrub, sunny grassy hillsides and mountainsides to 1600 metres, all over Japan[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].
Plants are hardy to about -20°c[184], but are deciduous in cold climates.
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].
This species is closely related to R. indicum[200].
Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus[200].
For further Rhododendron kaempferi gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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