The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Yakushima rhododendron

Family: Ericaceae (heath family)

Synonym: Rhododendron degronianum subsp. yakushimanum var. yakushimanum, Rhododendron metternichii var. yakusimanum

Distribution: Japan

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen shrub

Comments: This compact, mounded evergreen shrub grows slowly to about 3' tall and 4' wide. It has dense, dark green leaves that have a wooly indumentum (covering of fine hairs) on their underside. The flowers are produced in May and are red in bud, opening to white with both colors together giving an "apple blossom" effect. Reportedly hardy to -15ºF. This species has been used extensively in rhododendron hybridization. Use in the foundation planting or mixed border.