Rhododendron Rhododendron 'Mrs Furnivall'
ABOUT
Rhododendron 'Mrs Furnivall' is a visually striking plant with a lush, evergreen profile that brings year-round interest to gardens. This plant showcases glossy, dark green leaves that provide a rich backdrop for its notable springtime display. The leaves are oblong with a smooth texture, curving slightly at the edges, and forming a dense, layered canopy. The true allure of this Rhododendron lies in its abundant blooms. The flowers are bell-shaped with a delicate, frilly edge, often appearing in clusters. Each flower cluster forms a striking dome-shaped truss that makes a dramatic statement against the foliage. The blossoms come in a mesmerizing shade of soft pink, with subtle hints of deeper pink and occasional lavender undertones gently blending towards their throats. Subtle, darker pink speckles may dot the interior of the blooms, adding depth and complexity to their appearance. As the plant blooms, the garden is treated to a floral spectacle that is both elegant and eye-catching, ticking off the spring season with a burst of color that is difficult for any flower enthusiast to ignore. Rhododendron 'Mrs Furnivall' stands out for its combination of vibrant flowers and lustrous, verdant leaves which make it a favorite among gardeners looking to add a dash of classic beauty to their landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ericaceae
Synonyms
Rhododendron, Azalea
Common names
Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall'
ToxicityTo humans
Rhododendron, which includes varieties like 'Mrs Furnivall', is toxic to humans. Ingestion of any part of the plant can lead to poisoning. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, and coma, in severe cases. Eating larger quantities can result in potentially fatal outcomes, as the plant contains substances known as grayanotoxins. It is critical to avoid consuming any part of the rhododendron plant.
To pets
Rhododendron is also toxic to pets. If your pet ingests any part of this plant, they can experience serious health issues. Symptoms of rhododendron poisoning in pets include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and potentially life-threatening heart arrhythmias. Prompt veterinary attention is crucial if you suspect your pet has ingested some of this plant, as it can be fatal without treatment.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' produces beautiful clusters of pink flowers that add color and a visual appeal to gardens and landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: This rhododendron variety has a specific blooming season, usually in the spring, that provides a seasonal highlight for garden enthusiasts.
- Shade Tolerance: Like many rhododendrons, this variety can tolerate and thrive in shade or partial shade, making it suitable for wooded gardens or areas with limited direct sunlight.
- Privacy Screen: When planted in groups or rows, Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' can create a dense foliage barrier, offering privacy and reducing noise pollution.
- Habitat Support: The flowers of the rhododendron can attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Erosion Control: This rhododendron, with its wide-spreading root system, can help prevent soil erosion in sloped gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: Rhododendrons are versatile and can be used in various landscape applications, including foundation plantings, specimen plants, or mixed borders.
- Longevity: Rhododendrons can live for many years, offering a long-term addition to the garden with proper care and conditions.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography prop: Rhododendron blooms, with their vibrant colors and large flowers, are often used as stunning natural backdrops or subjects in garden photography.
- Educational tool: Botany students and educators can use the Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' to study plant structure, reproductive biology, and horticultural techniques.
- Bee forage: While not unusual, Rhododendrons can be a source of nectar when other plants are not available, though some species may produce toxic nectar for bees.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may draw inspiration from the shape and color of Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' flowers and leaves, for works in various mediums.
- Culinary decoration: Edible varieties of Rhododendron petals can adorn salads and desserts, though it is crucial to ensure they are safe for consumption as many are toxic.
- Dye source: Certain Rhododendron species can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or crafts, though the toxicity of the plant must be taken into consideration and it's generally not recommended for 'Mrs. Furnivall'.
- Social events: The blooming period of Rhododendrons can coincide with garden parties and outdoor celebrations, providing a beautiful, seasonal backdrop.
- Privacy screens: Planted in a hedge, Rhododendrons can provide a dense and attractive screen that offers privacy throughout the growing season.
- Nature-inspired design: Rhododendron motifs can be incorporated into textiles, wallpaper, and other design elements for a botanical aesthetic.
- Companion planting: Rhododendrons can be planted alongside other acid-loving plants, aiding in garden design and enhancing overall plant health through beneficial interactions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Rhododendron is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Rhododendron is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Warning: Rhododendron plants are often a symbol of caution due to their toxic nature, reminding people to beware of lurking dangers.
- Elegance: With its showy flowers, the Rhododendron is often associated with sophistication and refined beauty.
- Abundance: The full, abundant clusters of flowers can signify prosperity and wealth.
- Survival: Rhododendrons are hardy plants capable of thriving in challenging environments, making them a symbol of endurance and the ability to overcome adversity.
- Homecoming: In certain cultures, the Rhododendron is a welcoming emblem, indicating an invitation to return home safely.
WaterRhododendrons, including the Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall', prefer a consistent watering schedule. They should be watered deeply every week during their growing season in spring and summer, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Depending on the weather conditions, they may require between 1 to 2 gallons of water per week. During hot spells or prolonged dry periods, additional water may be necessary. During fall and winter, reduce the watering frequency to every 10 to 14 days, providing enough water to prevent the soil from completely drying out.
LightThe Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' thrives best in partial shade or filtered sunlight. It is ideal to place the plant where it can receive morning sunlight and be protected from the harsh afternoon sun. An eastern or northern exposure spot is typically well-suited for these plants, as it meets their preference for bright yet indirect light.
TemperatureThe Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' can generally tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Their ideal growing temperatures range from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can suffer from cold damage below 20 degrees Fahrenheit and may experience heat stress when the temperatures exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningThe Rhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' should be pruned to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches. The best time for pruning is immediately after the blooming period ends, as pruning later in the season can remove next year's buds. Light pruning can be done annually, while more extensive pruning should be done sparingly and only when necessary.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRhododendrons, including 'Mrs. Furnivall', require well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. A good soil mix consists of 50% peat moss or coco coir for acidity and moisture retention, 30% pine bark fines for drainage and aeration, and 20% perlite or coarse sand to further ensure proper drainage. Ensure the soil mix is organic-rich to support healthy growth.
RepottingRhododendrons like 'Mrs. Furnivall' typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years, or sooner if they outgrow their current container. It's best to repot in the late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
Humidity & Misting'Mrs. Furnivall' Rhododendron thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. These plants prefer a moist environment, which can be achieved by placing the plant in a naturally humid area or using a humidifier.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place near an east window for indirect light, maintain acidic soil, keep humid.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade, mulch well, protect from harsh winds.
Hardiness zone
5-8 USDA
Life cycleRhododendron 'Mrs. Furnivall' begins its life as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-draining soil in a partially shaded environment. After germination, it enters the seedling phase, where it develops its initial leaves and roots. It matures into a vegetative state, where it focuses on leaf and stem growth, establishing a robust root system. As the plant reaches maturity, it enters the flowering stage, producing large clusters of bell-shaped pink flowers with a white throat and deeper pink spots, typically in late spring. After pollination, it sets seeds that can be dispersed to produce new plants. During the winter, the rhododendron may undergo a period of dormancy, particularly in colder climates, where it conserves energy until the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Rhododendron, commonly named 'Mrs. Furnivall', is through semi-hardwood cuttings. This technique is best performed in late summer when new growth has begun to mature and harden slightly. Cuttings should be taken from healthy branches, around 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) long, making sure each cutting has several sets of leaves. After cutting, the lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The prepared cuttings are then inserted into a mix of peat and perlite or a similar well-draining medium and kept under high humidity and indirect light until roots have developed, which can take several months. It's essential to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent rot.
