A blooming splendid sight
AN attractive feature of many rhododendrons is their tendency to produce flowers that initially emerge in a deeper colour shade than that of the fully open bloom.
At Dunedin Botanic Garden, if you follow the southern track from the azalea garden, look for a flag by the small bridge. The flag marks Rhododendron
lukiangense, an upright plant growing to about 4m. Its mauve to lilac flowers catch the eye through the trees before you reach it.
On closer inspection, the flower trusses tend to be a bit flattopped and floppy. However, they make up for that with the alluring effect of the deep magenta of the young florets at the top of the flower truss, complementing the lighter lilacrose of the more mature florets below. Purple flecks on the upper part of the corolla echo the dark brown anthers that tip each of the 10 white stamens at the centre of each floret. The flowers gleam against the dark green foliage, so the twotoned effect also adds vitality to the whole plant.
The leaves have a waxy texture and are relatively long, narrow and pointed, emphasising the plant’s upright habit.
Originating from southwest China, R.lukiangense grows naturally there in a variety of habitats, ranging from mixed open forest, cliffs or among rocks and by streams. As a result, in the garden they are also adaptable. Garden Life is produced by Dunedin Botanic Garden. For further information contact Doug Thomson.