Rhododendron anthopogon

Physical Characteristics

Rhododendron anthopogon is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - W. China to the Himalayas.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Tea The flowers are used as a tea substitute[272].

Medicinal Uses

Antitussive Diaphoretic Digestive Febrifuge Tonic The stems and leaves of the sub-species R. anthopogon hypenanthum are used in Tibetan herbalism[241]. They have a sweet, bitter and astringent taste and they promote heat[241]. They are antitussive, diaphoretic and digestive and are used to treat lack of appetite, coughing and various skin disorders[241]. In Nepal, the leaves are boiled and the vapour inhaled to treat coughs and colds[272]. The flowers of the sub-species R. anthopogon hypenanthum are also used in Tibetan medicine, having a sweet taste and neutral potency[241]. They are antitussive, febrifuge and tonic, being used in the treatment of inflammations, lung disorders and general weakening of the body[241]. They are also used when water and locality are not agreeable due to a change of environment[241].

Known Hazards

Although no specific mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where many members have poisonous leaves. The pollen of many if not all species of rhododendrons is also probably toxic, being said to cause intoxication when eaten in large quantities[183].