Rhododendron Yakushimanum 'Morgenrot'

The rhododendron yakushimanum hybrid 'Morgenrot' is an outstanding breeding within the rhododendron genre, which is particularly valued for its striking flowers. This hybrid is a popular choice of garden lovers and landscapes, since it is not only aesthetically appealing, but also easy to care for and resistant.

Systematics and morphology

Rhododendron 'Morgenrot' is an evergreen shrub that can reach a height of about 1 to 1.5 meters and is characterized by its compact, dense growth. The leaves are elliptical, leathery and dark green, whereby the underside is densely hairy, which offers additional protection against cold and drought. The flowers are the most striking feature of this hybrid: they are located in a funnel, arranged in dense umbels and have a bright red to dark pink color, which is particularly intense when flowering and gives the plant their name 'dawn'. The heyday ranges from May to June.

Rhododendron toxicity

Like most types of rhododendron, rhododendron yakushimanum hybrid 'morning red' is toxic. All parts of the plant, especially the leaves, contain toxic substances such as gray anotoxins. If you eat by humans or animals, these substances can cause severe poisoning. Symptoms of rhododendron poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, weakness, heart rhythm disorders and, in severe cases, even breathing paralysis and death. Pets such as dogs and cats, as well as pasture animals such as horses and goats, are particularly at risk if they eat parts of the plant.

That is why it is important to plant rhododendron 'dawn' in areas that are inaccessible to pets and small children to avoid accidental poisoning. Garden owners should be aware that even the honey produced by bees that have visited rhododendron flowers can be toxic, a phenomenon that is known as "rhododendron honey poisoning" or "Mad Honey Disease".