northern rhododendrons
- To: s*@MAELSTROM.STJOHNS.EDU
- Subject: northern rhododendrons
- From: j* <j*@EMAIL.MSN.COM>
- Date: Wed, 2 Jun 1999 11:51:15 -0500
Greetings all:
With the recent talk about rhododendrons that are hardy in cold areas, here
are some to consider: Northern Starburst (an improved PJM type with hot pink
blooms); Nova Zembla (dark red); Aglo (pink); and White Catawba. I have not
personally grown these, but I've seen them. All are hardy to zone 4 except
Nova zembla whose northernmost range is said to be zone 5.
Others to consider are the Northern Lights hybrids developed by the
University of Minnesota: Golden Lights; Lemon Lights; Mandarin Lights
(ruffled orange-red blossoms); Orchid Lights; Northern Hi-Lights (white);
Rosy Lights; and White Lights.
Of course, one should not ignore that old favorite of many of us northern
growers: PJM, one of the hardiest (zone 4) with clusters of lavender-pink
blooms.
For all of you farther south, the above will grow through zone 7.
Rhodies from Finland being introduced in the U.S. this season are Mikkeli
(white); Helsinki University (bright pink with orange-red flecks); Hellikki
(dark violet-red); and Peter Tigerstedt (white with violet flecks).
These are Marjatta hybrids developed at the University of Helsinki by Dr.
Peter Tigerstedt and tested at the University of Minnesota Arboretum. They
are recommended for zone 4 and warmer. All average 5-6 feet tall and 3-6
feet wide.
Seek cultural information from your local Extension office or from Master
Gardeners in your area (your Extension office can provide names or your
garden club may have MGs who are members).
General cultural info: Rhodies benefit from protection against winter sun
and wind. They prefer acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Now I've talked myself into looking for Rhodies.
John G. Adney
Marion, Iowa (on the line of zones 4-5)
