Facts
Invasion
Rhododendron ponticum is a successful invasive
species, especially in the British Isles. Due to its
adaptations, it can typically outcompete any native plants
trying grow in the same area. This invasion leaves land damaged.
Due to the high cost and difficulty involved in restoring
the land, it is often abandoned.
Attempts to control this invasion are either
too expensive, dangerous to other organisms living in the area, or
physically demanding. However, alternate methods to control the
invasion are being looked into. For example, if the seed dispersal
patterns can be accurately predicted, one may be
able to stop the
plant before it spreads.
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Also, if researchers can determine how to
Association, Inc.
1987
prevent insects from pollinating the flowers,
the spread of
Rhododendron ponticum
could also be slowed down.
Fun
Facts
Rhododendron was discovered in the 16th century by Charles
l'Ecluse, a Flemish botanist.
There are more than 6,000 different cultivated varieties of Rhododendron.
Did you know that since Rhododendrons require acidic soil,
they are sometimes called acid loving plants?
A well-established Rhododendron ponticum requires
an herbicide with unique chemicals and several treatments over many
years in order to kill it and keep it from returning.