Azalea Rhododendron 'Double Damask' (K/d)
ABOUT
Rhododendron 'Double Damask' is a striking plant known for its lush, evergreen foliage and spectacular blooms. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery in texture, which form a dense backdrop for its flowers. The most notable feature of this plant is its flowers, which bloom in clusters known as trusses. Each truss is made up of multiple individual blooms, giving the appearance of a bouquet. The flowers themselves are double, meaning they have extra petals that create a full, ruffled look, resembling the layers of a Victorian petticoat. The color of the blooms is a vivid pink, with subtle variations that can range from soft rose to a more intense fuchsia tone. Typically, the flowers have a velvety sheen, adding to their allure. Rhododendron 'Double Damask' blooms in the late spring to early summer, producing a showy display that can last for several weeks. This profusion of flowers not only adds magnificent color to the landscape but also attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to the garden. Overall, Rhododendron 'Double Damask' is highly valued for its decorative and lush double-flowered display, which can transform any garden into a vibrant tapestry of pink during its flowering season. The blending of its elegant blooms with the robust evergreen foliage makes it a favorite among garden enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ericaceae
Synonyms
Double Damask Azalea, Rosebay, Rhododendron
Common names
Rhododendron 'Double Damask' K/d.
ToxicityTo humans
Rhododendron plants, including the 'Double Damask' variety, contain toxic compounds, primarily grayanotoxins, in all their parts, including leaves, flowers, and nectar. Ingesting any part of rhododendrons can cause poisoning in humans. Symptoms of rhododendron poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, and coma. In severe cases, the cardiac effects of the toxins can lead to potentially fatal arrhythmias.
To pets
Rhododendrons are toxic to pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. Eating any part of the plant can result in poisoning because it contains compounds known as grayanotoxins. Symptoms in pets may include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, incoordination, and in severe cases, seizures, coma, and death due to cardiovascular collapse.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.83 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Rhododendron 'Double Damask' has large, showy flowers that add aesthetic beauty to landscapes and gardens.
- Diverse Landscaping: It can be used in a variety of landscaping designs including ornamental plantings, foundation plantings, and as a specimen plant.
- Habitat Support: The plant provides nectar for pollinators such as bees and can serve as a food source for certain butterfly species.
- Year-Round Interest: This rhododendron has evergreen foliage that provides visual interest even when it's not in bloom.
- Erosion Control: Its root system helps stabilize soil on slopes and can help control erosion.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, this plant requires minimal maintenance and is quite hardy.
- Privacy Screen: When planted in groups, Rhododendron 'Double Damask' can create a dense screen for privacy or wind protection.
- Cultural Significance: Rhododendrons are often associated with traditional landscaping and hold cultural significance in many parts of the world.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye source: Rhododendron petals can be used to create natural dyes for textiles.
- Ink production: Boiling certain parts of the Rhododendron plant can be used to make a form of ink for writing and artwork.
- Edible flower arrangements: While many Rhododendrons contain toxic compounds, those known to be non-toxic can be used as decorative, edible elements in culinary presentations.
- Microclimate regulator: Planting Rhododendrons strategically can help create microclimates in gardens thanks to their dense foliage.
- Craft material: Fallen Rhododendron flowers and leaves can be pressed and used in craft projects like homemade paper or potpourri.
- Photography subject: Rhododendrons are commonly used by photographers as subjects to capture the beauty of nature and gardens.
- Nature-inspired art: Artists may use this plant as inspiration or even as a component in their nature-based or biodegradable art installations.
- Perfumery: Rhododendron flowers can infuse water or oils with their fragrance for use in homemade perfumes or scented sachets.
- Spiritual practices: In some cultures, Rhododendron flowers and leaves are used in spiritual ceremonies and offerings.
- Bonsai art: Rhododendrons can be trained as bonsai for the art of miniature tree shaping and cultivation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rhododendron is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rhododendron is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Beware: Rhododendrons, in general, carry the symbolic meaning of caution due to the plant's toxic nature.
- Elegance: The 'Double Damask' variety, with its lush, layered petals, represents sophistication and refined beauty.
- Escape: Some interpret rhododendrons as a symbol for finding an escape due to their dense growth that can form impassable thickets.
- Abundance: With their large clusters of flowers, rhododendrons like 'Double Damask' can symbolize abundance or wealth.
- Survival: Rhododendrons are known for their hardiness, often symbolizing the ability to overcome adversity.
WaterAzaleas, including the Rhododendron 'Double Damask', generally require even moisture and should not dry out completely. Water these plants deeply once a week, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. During hot or dry weather, they may need additional water. Typically, applying about one inch of water per week is adequate. However, in particularly dry conditions, you may need to increase this to maintain soil moisture levels.
LightAzaleas flourish in dappled sunlight, so a spot that offers partial shade with some indirect light is ideal. They should be protected from intense afternoon sun which can scorch their leaves, while still receiving enough light to promote vibrant blooms.
TemperatureAzaleas enjoy moderate temperatures and can typically withstand a range between 20°F to 80°F. They prefer a cooler range of 60°F to 70°F. Extended periods of temperatures below 20°F or above 80°F can be harmful to the plant.
PruningAzaleas should be pruned for shape, health, and to promote flowering. The best time to prune is just after the blooms have faded in the spring. Prune sparingly each year to maintain the plant's form and encourage new growth for next year's blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilAzaleas, which include the Rhododendron 'Double Damask', thrive best in well-draining, humus-rich, acidic soil with a pH of 4.5 to 6.0. A mixture of 50% pine bark, 30% perlite, and 20% peat moss can create an ideal soil environment for these plants, providing aeration and moisture retention.
RepottingRhododendrons, including the Azalea 'Double Damask', typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years, or when they become root-bound. The best time to repot is in the early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingAzaleas like the Rhododendron 'Double Damask' prefer moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%, which replicates their natural woodland habitat. Avoid placing them in extremely dry environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright, indirect light and maintain slight humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleRhododendron 'Double Damask' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates in moist, well-drained acidic soil, typically in spring or fall. The seedling goes through a juvenile phase where it develops roots, shoots, and leaves, becoming a young plant. As it matures, it enters a vegetative stage, forming a woody structure and evergreen foliage, and may take several years to reach flowering maturity. Upon reaching maturity, it produces clusters of showy double flowers, usually in the spring, attracting pollinators for reproduction. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules that eventually dry and release seeds, continuing the cycle. Throughout the year, the Rhododendron may undergo periods of growth and dormancy, influenced by seasonal changes, with maintenance pruning and care ensuring its health and longevity.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Rhododendron 'Double Damask' is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This typically takes place during the late summer, once the new growth has begun to harden but is not yet fully mature. Cuttings of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) are taken from healthy, disease-free plants, with a few leaves left at the top. The cut end is often dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and then planted in a mixture of peat and perlite to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. The cuttings are kept under high humidity and indirect light until roots have established, which may take several weeks to a few months.
