Rododendron (Yakushimanum) 'SILBERGLANZ' rhododendron
size/type
medium-sized shrub,medium-sized shrub
usual height
0,5-1,3m
usual width
1-1,8m
leaves
deciduous broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
showy
colour of flowers
blooming time
May-May
location
full to partial sun
USDA zone (lowest)
5b (down to -27°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
Yakushimanum rhododendrons were first discovered in early 1900’s on a small island off southern coasts of Japan called Yaku. They grew happily on rocky slopes of this mountainous island in full sun, and were constantly disturbed by wind. Their habit was compact and not very tall. All these features seemed very promising and deserved better examination. The first plants were sent to the UK by a Japanese grower Koichiro Wada in 1934, which set off a long programme of hybridizing brand new, fantastic plants.
Description of the plant:
Silberglanz is one of the most sought-after almost white flowering yakushimanum hybrids bred by Hans Hachmann in Germany. It was introduced in 1968 and is truly awesome. Its soft pink buds open into pale pink and white flowers with lightly frilled margins. Flowers are so delicate yet firm and look as if made of wax. Blooming begins in the first decade of May and continues for 3-4 weeks. The evergreen leaves are leathery, narrowly elliptic, very dark olive green, glossy, and almost invisible when the plant is in full bloom. 10-year-old plants reach about 80-90 cm tall and a bit more wide in a neat, cushion-like habit. Tests proved that deadheading of these hybrids does not influence formation of flower buds for the following season. However, as these plants are slow growers, making short new branches, deadheading significantly improves their appearance since the new shoots cannot cover the unsightly dry seed-pods that followed the flowers.
Yakushimanum rhododendrons grow slowly, forming compact mounds. Their mature leaves usually have indumentum of various colours on the undersides. They thrive in full sun and partial shade, they can take full shade, too, but is not ideal. The soil has to be reasonably fertile, well-drained, cool, constantly moist, and of low pH (6 or less) = acidic. They do not require nitrogen but need iron and phosphorus. Their roots spread outwards and are very shallow, therefore never plant them too deep. When planting mix good, lime-free compost with quality peat or leaf mould, and add some slow-release fertilizer. To conserve moisture and to suppress weeds keep them mulched all year round. Silberglanz proved hardy to -26°C (USDA zone 5b) and is expected to take a little stronger frost.
Last update: 23-10-2015
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