Rhododendron dauricum aka Dahurian Rhododendron

Rhododendron dauricum is part of the heath family. Its other name is Dahurian rhododendron. It grows across Siberia, Mongolia and northern China. Its range also includes Korea and Japan. In the wild, it grows in mountain woods and at their edges. Its name refers to Dauria, east of Lake Baikal. This small shrub grows upright. It may keep some leaves through winter. Garden plants often grow 4–6 feet [1.2–1.8 metres] tall and wide. RHS gives an upper size of 8.2 feet [2.5 metres]. Plants reach full size in about five to ten years.

Young shoots have fine hairs and small scales. The small, oval leaves have round tips and dark green tops. The leaves are paler below and have brown scales there. Some plants lose all their leaves; others keep some. Small groups of flowers sit above the leaves. Each bloom has a broad mouth shaped like a funnel. The petals range from pink to violet-pink. Flowers can reach about 0.13 feet [0.04 metres] across. Bloom times vary with place and climate. Oregon State notes blooms in January and February. For St. Louis, Missouri Botanical Garden gives March to April.

This shrub grows best in part shade. It needs shelter from winter winds. Light filtered through trees suits it. Full sun can scorch the leaves. It needs acid soil rich in humus and other organic matter. Keep the soil moist, but let excess water drain. Poor drainage can cause root rot. Raised beds can help where heavy clay holds water. Its roots form shallow, fine threads. Protect them from digging and other work in the soil. Mulch helps the soil stay moist and limits shifts in soil heat. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA zones 5–8. RHS rates it H6.

Use it in woodland gardens, shaded borders or mixed shrub beds. It suits loose hedges and groups, or stands on its own. Near homes, it can show off its early flowers. Leaves that stay on add interest in winter. The blooms draw butterflies and hummingbirds. Missouri Botanical Garden also lists resistance to rabbits. Growers can raise new plants from ripe seed. They can take semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, too. Layering in autumn is another way to grow new plants.

Vine weevils, whiteflies, leafhoppers and lacebugs may attack this shrub. So may aphids, scale insects and caterpillars. Disease risks include powdery mildew, petal blight and bud blast. Silver leaf and honey fungus pose risks, too. Good growing conditions and care help limit these problems. RHS warns that eating this plant harms people and pets. It also says to wear gloves and other protection when handling it.