Rhododendron minus

Piedmont rhododendron is a woody, evergreen or deciduous shrub in the Ericaceae family that is native to North Carolina, South Carolina, and the Tennessee mountains. One of the smaller species, this plant grows 3 to 6 feet tall and wide. The genus name derives from the Greek words rhodo, which means rose, and dendron, meaning tree. 

Piedmont rhododendron grows best in partial shade and cool, moist, well-drained, organically rich, acidic soil. It can tolerate full sun in certain areas, although windy sites should be avoided. It cannot tolerate dense clay, and the roots may rot if the soil does not drain well. Plant the root ball high in the soil to help with drainage issues. Avoid overwatering and over-fertilizing.

Site the plant in a naturalized or woodland area, or use it as a border, foundation, or mass planting. Its flowers attract hummingbirds and bees, so it is also suitable as a specimen in a pollinator garden.

Prune rhododendrons and azaleas after they bloom to preserve the current season's bloom, and allow time for the plant to produce flower buds for next year's bloom.  Rhododendrons and azaleas set next year's flower buds by mid to late summer. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Insect problems include aphids, borers, lace bugs, leafhoppers, mealybugs, mites, nematodes, scale, thrips, and whitefly.  Leaf spot disease can develop if grown in deep shade or the plant suffers drought stress. Other diseases include canker, crown rot, root rot, rust, and powdery mildew. This plant is frequently damaged by deer. 

Many Rhododendron cultivars are susceptible to Phytophthora root rot–this leads to leaf loss, reduced vigor, branch dieback, and wilting. Implement good cultural practices first, such as improving drainage with organic matter or berms and avoiding overwatering or overfertilization. For suitable alternatives, see this video created by Charlotte Glen as part of the Plants, Pests, and Pathogens series.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

More information on Rhododendron.