Rhododendron catawbiense aka Catawba Rhododendron

Taxonomy ID: 7217

Rhododendron catawbiense, commonly known as Catawba rosebay, Catawba rhododendron, mountain rosebay, purple ivy, purple laurel, purple rhododendron, red laurel, or rosebay laurel, is a species of Rhododendron native to the eastern United States. It predominantly grows in the southern Appalachian Mountains, spanning from Virginia to northern Alabama. This medium to large evergreen shrub has a dense habit and glossy dark green leaves that are ovate and can grow up to 15cm long. From late spring to early summer, it produces large clusters of bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple, pink, and sometimes white. This hardy species is tolerant to sun and serves as a parent to many frost-hardy hybrids. The flowers, which have green to yellow-brown throat markings, attract butterflies and provide nectar for them. The plant's gray-brown bark develops fine scales as it ages, and it forms dense thickets that offer shelter and nesting sites for birds and wildlife. The species is named after the Catawba River and is an important contributor to the creation of numerous hardy hybrids.

Common names

Catawba Rhododendron, Mountain Rose Bay, Purple Laurel

More information about Catawba Rhododendron

How difficult is it to take care of Catawba Rhododendron

Caring for Catawba Rhododendron is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.

What is the region of origin of Catawba Rhododendron

Catawba Rhododendron’s native range is Asia and North America.

What are the water needs for Catawba Rhododendron

Catawba Rhododendron should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Catawba Rhododendron

Catawba Rhododendron loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Catawba Rhododendron

To ensure optimal growth, the Catawba Rhododendron prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

What's the right humidity for Catawba Rhododendron

The Catawba Rhododendron does not need extra humidity. Plants primarily absorb water through their root system, making soil watering the best way to provide humidity to your plants.

How to fertilize Catawba Rhododendron

The Catawba Rhododendron grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Is Catawba Rhododendron toxic to humans/pets?

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

More info:
Wikipedia