Korean Rhododendron
(Rhododendron mucronulatum)
Korean Rhododendron (Rhododendron mucronulatum)
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Tae Hoon Kang
CC BY 2.0
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Tae Hoon Kang
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CC BY 2.0
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Photo by: Tae Hoon Kang | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 | Uploader: Flickr upload bot | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons | Title: Korea-Jindallae-Rhododendron_mucronulatum-01.jpg | Notes: |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Rhododendron mucronulatum, commonly known as Korean Rhododendron, is a deciduous shrub native to the Korean peninsula, Japan, and parts of China. It typically grows to 1–2 m (3.3–6.6 ft) in height and is known for its elliptic or elliptic-lanceolate leaves. The shrub is particularly noted for its reddish-purple flowers that bloom in late winter or early spring, providing an early splash of color. The flowers are quite showy, often appearing on the bare branches before the foliage emerges, creating a striking contrast against the winter landscape. The cultivar ’Cornell Pink’ is celebrated for its light pink flowers and has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Korean Rhododendron is valued for its early flowering period and is often used in woodland gardens, shrub borders, and as a specimen plant. It is appreciated for its relatively low maintenance needs and its ability to thrive in part shade or full shade, making it suitable for shaded areas where other plants might struggle. While it is hardy down to −20 °C (−4 °F), it requires protection from harsh winds and prefers an acidic soil enriched with leaf mould. Gardeners should ensure adequate drainage and provide medium amounts of water to keep the plant healthy. Potential problems include root rot in poorly drained soils and susceptibility to pests like aphids and vine weevils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Korean Rhododendron is valued for its early flowering period and is often used in woodland gardens, shrub borders, and as a specimen plant. It is appreciated for its relatively low maintenance needs and its ability to thrive in part shade or full shade, making it suitable for shaded areas where other plants might struggle. While it is hardy down to −20 °C (−4 °F), it requires protection from harsh winds and prefers an acidic soil enriched with leaf mould. Gardeners should ensure adequate drainage and provide medium amounts of water to keep the plant healthy. Potential problems include root rot in poorly drained soils and susceptibility to pests like aphids and vine weevils.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 4-8 feet
- Width: 4-8 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Slow, Medium
Common Uses
Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Fragrant, Hummingbird Garden, Rabbit Resistant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to the Korean peninsula, Japan, and parts of China, typically found in forested areas and mountain slopes
Other Names
Common Names: Korean Rosebay, Storblommig Vinteralpros, 진달래, 진달래나무
Scientific Names: , Rhododendron mucronulatum,
GBIF Accepted Name: Rhododendron mucronulatum Turcz.