Rhododendron (impeditum) 'LUISELLA'

Rhododendrons are reliable, beautifully flowering, evergreen shrubs of variable origin: S.W. China, Himalayas, Northern America, and even Europe. The original species were hybridized several times for better performance so in the 1950´s there were more than 10,000 cultivars registered, and the number keeps increasing.

Luisella bears profusion of small lilac-violet flowers and blue or almost turquoise leaves. It belongs to dwarf rhododendrons which grow low, like groundcovers, and form cushions that are very popular in Japanese-style gardens as so-called live stones. When in full bloom it offers a stunning show of hundreds of flowers for which the leaves are barely visible. No pruning recommended. Slow grower. Bred by H.Hachmann in 1988.

Grow this dwarf type in any location from full sun to full shade, just make sure it is always well mulched. The roots are shallow, spreading to sides in search for nutrients. Never plant them too deep. The soil has to be acidic (pH 4.5-5.5), rich in humus, cool and always moist. Ideal soil mixture is peat with lime-free, light garden soil topped with leaf-mould. Fully hardy to min. -27°C (USDA zone 5), possibly more.

Last update 25-12-2008