Bright red in the hills
Red rhododendrons range from crimson to a dark blood red, and the trusses stand out against dark glossy leaves. They are favourites in the cool gardens of the Dandenongs, the Blue Mountains and Tasmania. Flowering is in spring, usually September to November.
Our own red rhododendron
Australia has one native species, Rhododendron lochiae, found on Mount Bartle Frere and the Bellenden Ker range in north Queensland. Its flowers are red, and it often grows as an epiphyte on rainforest trees. It prefers cool, misty highlands and is very different from the garden hybrids.
What red rhododendron means
The symbolism is a bit unusual. In the Victorian language of flowers a rhododendron carried a warning, a message of caution, so searches for what rhododendrons symbolise often turn up the word danger. In modern gardens it is simply a bold seasonal shrub.
Growing red rhododendrons the Australian way
- Dappled shade protects red flowers from fading in strong sun.
- Acidic, mulched, well-drained soil is vital.
- Feed after flowering with a fertiliser for acid-loving plants.
- Water through summer as the roots are shallow.
Pet safety around red rhododendrons
The ASPCA warns about dogs, cats and horses. The toxin is grayanotoxin, and symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling and weakness, progressing to coma in serious cases. Even a few leaves can cause problems, and the plant is not recommended around grazing animals. Contact a vet quickly. For human exposure call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
