Rhododendron Rhododendron 'Wombat' (EA)
ABOUT
The Rhododendron 'Wombat' is an ornamental cultivar notable for its vibrant flowers and lush foliage. It features beautifully structured blossoms that come in a striking shade, which is often a point of attraction in the landscape. The flowers cluster together in stunning arrays, creating a visually impactful display during its blooming season. Each flower is composed of multiple petals with a velvety texture, radiating from the center where small contrasting stamens may be visible. The leaves of the Rhododendron 'Wombat' are equally attractive, with a glossy, deep green hue that provides a rich backdrop for the bright blooms. These leaves are typically elongated and leathery to the touch, with an ability to remain evergreen throughout the year, thus offering a constant aesthetic appeal even when the plant is not in flower. It’s important to know that the Rhododendron 'Wombat' can vary in form, but it typically exhibits a well-branched structure that supports the heavy load of flowers. Without going into specifics, the plant maintains a certain proportion that enables it to serve as a focal point in a garden bed, a border or as a standalone specimen. The overall shape is often pleasing to the eye, with a natural symmetry to its growth. In sum, the Rhododendron 'Wombat' is a plant that’s cherished for its stunning floral display and year-round evergreen presence, contributing both color and structural beauty to any space it occupies. Its visual impact is substantial, creating a lush and vibrant addition to gardens and landscapes.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ericaceae
Synonyms
Wombat Rhododendron
Common names
Rhododendron 'Wombat' (EA)
ToxicityTo humans
The Rhododendron is known to be toxic to humans if ingested. The plant contains grayanotoxins, which can affect the body’s sodium channels and lead to poisoning. Symptoms of rhododendron poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, coma, hypotension, CNS depression, cardiovascular collapse, and potentially death. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Rhododendron is also toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Grayanotoxins present in the plant can disturb normal cellular function and lead to symptoms similar to those in humans, including vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, weakness, incoordination, and cardiac abnormalities. In severe cases, ingestion can be fatal. If a pet is suspected to have ingested rhododendron, it is crucial to contact a veterinarian immediately.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Varies
Height
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Spread
5 feet (1.52 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Asia
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Rhododendron 'Wombat' features stunning blooms that enhance garden aesthetics with their vibrant colors.
- Landscape Versatility: This plant can be used in various garden settings, including borders, foundations, and as a specimen plant.
- Attracts Wildlife: The flowers provide nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
- Shade Tolerance: Rhododendrons can thrive in partially shaded areas where other plants may not perform well.
- Drought Resistance: Once established, some varieties of rhododendrons, including the 'Wombat,' may tolerate periods of drought.
- Evergreen Foliage: Rhododendrons keep their leaves year-round, offering continuous greenery even in winter months.
- Erosion Control: The root systems can help stabilize soil on slopes and prevent erosion.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Dye: The leaves and flowers of Rhododendron can be used to produce natural dyes for fabric and paper, offering a range of colors from soft yellows to rich greens depending on the mordant used.
- Photography: The vibrant blooms of Rhododendron make it a popular subject for photographers and artists, who capture its beauty in various forms of visual art.
- Culinary Garnish: While most parts of Rhododendrons are toxic if ingested, the flowers can sometimes be crystallized and used as decorative edible garnishes in high-end cuisine, provided they are of a nontoxic variety.
- Honey Production: In regions where Rhododendrons are non-toxic, bees may produce a unique honey from their flowers; however, care must be taken as some species can produce "mad honey" which is toxic to humans.
- Educational Use: Rhododendron varieties, such as 'Wombat', are used in horticultural education to teach about plant breeding, hybridization, and the importance of botanical gardens.
- Artistic Inspiration: The diverse range of colors and shapes of Rhododendron flowers often inspire artists and designers, influencing patterns and motifs used in textiles and wallpaper designs.
- Floral Arrangements: Rhododendron flowers and foliage can be used in floral arrangements, especially in regions where they are commonly found, adding texture and volume to bouquets.
- Landscape Shaping: With their dense growth habit, Rhododendrons can be trimmed into various forms and shapes for topiary or hedging in formal gardens.
- Craft Materials: The wood of Rhododendron can be used in the crafting of small items such as buttons, beads, or even handles for tools and cutlery.
- Cultural Symbolism: In certain cultures or regions, Rhododendrons carry symbolic meanings and are used in traditional ceremonies or as national symbols, such as in Nepal where it is the national flower.
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 are often associated with caution and danger due to the presence of toxic substances in their leaves, which can be harmful if ingested.
- Warning: Similarly, they can symbolize a warning to be heedful of upcoming challenges or to tread carefully in certain situations.
- Abundance: With their full, vibrant blooms, rhododendrons represent abundance and wealth, metaphorically conveying the fullness of life or experiences.
- Elegance: The sophisticated and often lush appearance of the rhododendron flowers can signify elegance and the appreciation of refined beauty.
- Rediscovery: Rhododendrons, which often bloom in the spring, can symbolize rebirth and the rediscovery of aspects of oneself or the reawakening nature after winter.
WaterAzaleas, including the Rhododendron 'Wombat', should be watered deeply to encourage root growth, which generally means providing enough water to soak the earth around the roots. This plant requires consistently moist soil, so watering should be done when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which could be approximately once a week. During hot or dry weather, watering may need to be more frequent. Applying roughly 1 gallon of water per square foot per watering session will ensure the soil becomes sufficiently moist. During the winter months or in cooler climates, reduce the amount of water to match the plant's reduced need for moisture.
LightAzaleas thrive in dappled sunlight or partial shade, so place the Rhododendron 'Wombat' in a location where it can receive filtered sunlight throughout the day or bright, indirect light. An ideal spot might be under the canopy of tall trees or on the north side of a building. Direct afternoon sun can be too intense and may lead to leaf scorch, so it’s important to avoid exposing the plant to harsh direct sunlight for extended periods.
TemperatureAzaleas like the Rhododendron 'Wombat' do well in moderate climates and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F and as high as 80°F. They thrive best in temperatures between 50°F and 70°F. It's important for these plants to be protected from harsh winter winds and extreme summer heat to prevent damage to the foliage and blooms.
PruningAzaleas, including the Rhododendron 'Wombat', should be pruned to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged wood, and encourage bushier growth. The best time to prune is just after the blooms have faded in the spring. Pruning at this time ensures that you won't be removing any of next year's buds, which are formed in the summer. Prune sparingly, as azaleas do not require heavy pruning, and always use clean, sharp tools.
CleaningAs needed
SoilRhododendrons, including 'Wombat', thrive in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 6.0. A mix of 50% pine bark, 30% peat moss, and 20% perlite or coarse sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
Repotting'Wombat' rhododendrons generally require repotting every 2 to 3 years, or when they become root-bound. It is best to repot in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingRhododendrons like 'Wombat' prefer moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 40% to 60%, but they can tolerate lower humidity if properly watered and mulched.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light, keep soil moist, and ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in dappled shade, water regularly, protect from harsh sun and wind.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Rhododendron 'Wombat' begins with seed germination, where proper temperature and moisture allow the seed to develop a root system and sprout leaves. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the growth of leaves and stems as the plant establishes itself. As it enters the vegetative stage, the Rhododendron 'Wombat' matures into a bush with dense foliage, during which it develops the buds that will become flowers. The flowering stage occurs annually, typically in spring, showcasing blossoms that attract pollinators for sexual reproduction. After pollination, the plant produces capsules containing seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. The Rhododendron 'Wombat' then enters a period of dormancy during colder months before resuming growth and flowering in the next cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Rhododendron 'Wombat', commonly known as Rhododendron, is best propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken during late summer. To do this, cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) length of stem that has matured slightly but is not fully hard. The cutting should include at least two sets of leaves at the top. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Plant the cutting in a mixture of peat and perlite to provide good drainage and maintain a consistently moist environment. Covering the cutting with a plastic bag can help retain humidity. With proper care, the cutting should root in a few weeks, after which it can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the garden, depending on the climate and time of year.
