Rhododendron arboreum

Physical Characteristics

Rhododendron arboreum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 12 m (39ft) by 3 m (9ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to May. 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 - Himalayas to Sri Lanka.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Edible Uses: The tender leaves are used as a cooked vegetable[105, 158, 183]. Caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Flowers - raw or cooked[272]. A sweet-sour taste, they are said to make a good sub-acid jelly[183]. Th flowers are sometimes simply pickled by adding salt and chili[272]. Caution is advised, large quantities can cause intoxication[2, 183].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Dysentery Poultice Stomachic The young leaves are astringent and poultice[158]. They are made into a pasteand then applied to the forehead in the treatment of headaches[240, 272]. The juice of the bark is used in the treatment of coughs, diarrhoea and dysentery[272]. A decoction of the flowers is used to check a tendency to vomit, especially if there is also a loss of appetite[272]. The juice of the flowers is used in the treatment of menstrual disorders[272]. The petals are eaten to assist the removal of any animal bones that have become stuck in the throat[262].

Known Hazards

The leaves are poisonous[51, 240]. The flowers can cause intoxication in large quantities[183].