How to Grow Rhododendron Percy Wiseman - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Rhododendron percy wiseman is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. It has large, dark green leaves and produces large, showy clusters of white flowers in the spring. This plant is native to the Himalayan region and is named after British plant collector, Percy Wiseman.

How to Grow Rhododendron Percy Wiseman - Plant Care & Tips

Alternative name

  • rhododendron
  • percy
  • wiseman
  • rhododendron percy
  • rhododendron wiseman

Good to Know

  • Rhododendron percywiseman is a species of flowering plant in the heath family.
  • It is found in the Himalayas, from Nepal to Sikkim, India.
  • It grows at altitudes of 2,500-4,000 m.
  • It is a shrub or small tree growing to 5 m tall.
  • The leaves are oblong to oval, 10-25 cm long and 4-8 cm broad.
  • The flowers are white, pink or purple, 5-8 cm across, with five petals.
  • The fruit is a capsule 5-8 cm long, containing numerous small seeds.
  • It is named after Percy Wiseman, an English botanist.
  • It is the national flower of Nepal.
  • It is the state flower of Uttarakhand, India.

Related plant:
Rhododendron Arboreum

Growing Steps

  1. For rhododendron percy wiseman, first step is to find a good location. The plant prefers partial sun to shade and moist, well-drained soils.
  2. Amend the planting hole with organic matter such as compost or peat moss to help with drainage.
  3. Set the plant at the same depth it was in the pot.
  4. Water well to settle the roots.
  5. Apply a layer of mulch around the plant, but keep it away from the stem.
  6. Rhododendron percy wiseman will need regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
  7. Fertilize in early spring and again in mid-summer with an acid-loving plant fertilizer.
  8. Prune in late winter to shape the plant and remove any damaged or diseased stems.
  9. Rhododendron percy wiseman can be susceptible to root rot and other fungal diseases, so choose a planting location that has good drainage.
  10. Keep an eye out for pests such as aphids, scale, and mites.

Related plant:
Pink Rhododendron

Soil Condition

About soil condition, Rhododendron percy wiseman prefers well-drained, acidic soil, with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. If the soil is too alkaline, the rhododendron will not be able to absorb the necessary nutrients. The ideal soil is one that is rich in organic matter, such as compost or peat moss. The rhododendron also needs to have good drainage, so it is important to make sure the soil is not too compacted.

Light condition

Like the other rhododendrons, Percy Wiseman requires a significant amount of sun to thrive. It's best to plant this variety in an area that receives at least six hours of sun per day, though it can tolerate slightly less. In areas with insufficient sun, the plant may become leggy and produce fewer flowers.

The Temperature

The temperature condition of Rhododendron percy wiseman is perfect for growing in most regions of the world. It can withstand cold winters and hot summers. However, it is best to keep this plant out of direct sunlight.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. When the humidity drops below 40%, the plant may exhibit stress symptoms such as leaf wilting and browning. If the humidity drops too low, the plant may experience death.

The Fertilizer

For the fertilizer, this plant prefers something with an NPK ratio of 5-10-5. Apply it around the base of the plant, keeping it away from the stems. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer granules. As for the root, Rhododendron percy wiseman prefers well-drained soil that is on the acidic side. If your soil is not naturally acidic, you can lower the pH by adding peat moss or sulfur.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of keeping your rhododendron percy wiseman healthy and looking its best. It is best to prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. You should remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any that are crossed or rubbing against each other. You can also prune to shape the plant, or to encourage more blooms. When pruning, be sure to use clean, sharp pruning shears.

About Propagating

Propagation of rhododendron percy wiseman is by seed, cuttings, or grafting. Seed germination is erratic and often takes more than one season. Cuttings of half-ripe wood root readily. Grafting is done using rhododendron species that havecompatible rootstock.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 10 to 12 inches per year. Some rhododendron percy wiseman can grow up to 24 inches per year. The average rhododendron percy wiseman plant will live for about 50 years.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, root rot, and aphids. To prevent these problems, make sure to water the plant regularly and keep the leaves dry. Also, avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to root rot. If you see any of these problems, treatment includes removing affected leaves, improving drainage, and applying fungicide.

List to Know

  • Remember to water your rhododendron Percy Wiseman regularly, as it is a thirsty plant.
  • Feed it once a month with a high-quality, balanced fertilizer.
  • Place it in an area of your garden that receives partial sun to full shade.
  • Prune it annually to keep it shapely and to encourage new growth.
  • Be on the lookout for pests and diseases, and treat accordingly if needed.
  • Keep an eye on the soil moisture levels, as rhododendrons prefer slightly acidic soil conditions.
  • If you live in an area with a harsh winter climate, protecting your rhododendron Percy Wiseman with a burlap wrap will help it withstand the cold weather.
  • transplanted rhododendron Percy Wiseman will take a few years to become fully established in its new location. Be patient and give it the time it needs to grow and thrive

Substitution

  • Rhododendron pachytrichum Schwarz & Menzel
  • Rhododendron pavichii R. M. Regel
  • Rhododendron pedicellare Brandis ex W. W. Smith
  • Rhododendron pedicellare subsp. pedicellare
  • Rhododendron pedicellare subsp. pedunculatum
  • Rhododendron pedunculare Roxb.
  • Rhododendron peptidicola W. P. Fang
  • Rhododendron percivalii D. F. Chamb.
  • Rhododendron percyi Ward
  • Rhododendronperseanum S. Y. Lin

Source:
Rhododendron (PJM Group) - North Carolina State University
Rhododendron ponticum | Landscape Plants - Oregon State …
Rhododendron maximum - North Carolina State University

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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Shrubs Category