Rhododendron hirsutum aka Hairy Alpenrose

Rhododendron hirsutum is a small shrub in the heath family, Ericaceae. It is evergreen, so its leaves stay green all year. Its native range spans the central and eastern Alps. From there, it reaches the northwestern Balkan Peninsula. It grows in temperate regions, which have a mild climate. It is not native to Britain or Ireland. The shrub has a bushy form.

Garden plants reach about 1.6–3.3 feet [0.5–1 metre] tall and wide. The RHS also describes plants around 2 feet [0.6 metres] tall. Plants take 10–20 years to reach their full size. Their green leaves range from elliptic, or oval, to lance-shaped. Fine hairs line the leaf edges. The flowers form tubes and grow in clusters of up to twelve. They open in early summer. Their shades range from pale to deep pink. Some plants have red or white flowers instead.

Grow this shrub in sun or light shade. It needs moist soil that lets excess water drain away. Add plenty of humus, the decayed plant matter in soil. Use soil that is acidic to neutral. The RHS lists clay, loam and sand as suitable soils. Add fresh mulch each year, with leaf mould the best choice. Its H7 rating means it withstands the coldest conditions in continental Europe. This includes temperatures below −4°F [−20°C]. The RHS lists exposed sites and sites with shelter as suitable. Sites can face any compass direction, according to the RHS.

Its small size suits beds and flower borders. It also fits borders beside walls. The RHS suggests city gardens and enclosed courtyards as places to grow it. It suits cottage gardens and less formal planting schemes too. Its leaves keep these spaces green throughout the year. It needs little pruning to keep its form. Grow new plants from seed. Or take semi-ripe cuttings in late summer, when stems have begun to firm up.

Watch for vine weevil, whitefly and rhododendron leafhopper. Pieris lacebug and scale insects may also attack it. Other possible pests include caterpillars and aphids. Powdery mildew and honey fungus can affect it too. So can silver leaf and Phytophthora. These problems may occur, but not every plant will suffer. This shrub can harm people or pets who eat it. The RHS warns of harm to dogs, cats, rabbits and tortoises. Do not treat it as an edible plant. Wear gloves and other gear that protects you when handling it.