Rhododendron Taurus
Rhododendron Taurus, one of the best reds available.
In spite of complaining about Winter, I really do love having the four seasons. At the moment we have plenty time to consider the changes which we may make in the garden for next Summer, and also the thrill of looking forward to Spring. I like to check my Summer garden pictures,for no other reason than to just remind myself on how it was.
Rhododendrons, so many to choose from, dwarf varieties with a height of 45cm and giants growing in excess of 20ft. A few of them a little tender, but the majority well suited to our north east climate.
It is essential for Rhododendrons to be planted in acidic soil, if yours happens to be neutral add loads of ericaceous compost when planting and top dress with this every year after watering profusely in late Spring.
If you are looking for a taller specimen plant of 8/12ft Taurus should be seriously considered. One of the best reds available, with glowing deep red flowers and dark green veined leaves. Buds in Winter are a conspicuous and effective red.
: Hardiness – Fully Hardy
: Soil – Acidic
: Position – Sun/Partial shade
: Height – 140/160cm 8/12ft
Snow returned today after a short break from it. Just about a white out at one point this morning.
Robert, that is a pity, I am surprised that it did not grow taller.
I bought Rhododendron “Taurus” as a birthday present for my partner . Although our garden is not small , a large Rodo would take over a considerable chunk of it. It was planted in a sunken area covering about 12 sq feet . This was filled with ericaceous compost in which Taurus was planted . That was eighteen years years ago . With occasional minimal pruning it reached about 1.5 metres tall. Right up until last year , each spring we were presented with masses of vivid red flowers which really brightened things up after the winter period. However , last winter finally caught up with it and due to a very long dry period , coupled with very low temperatures for a long time ,Taurus is no longer with us. I can highly recommend Taurus for the medium to large garden .
Yes they really do give a great display, we have also bought some from Glendoick.
I’m a big fan of Rhododendrons, with their stunning floral display in the spring and a major feature of Cornish gardens which we love to visit every year.
Our location is mainly alkaline, and although our garden has got acidic soil, a couple of feet down is chalk so alkaline. I grow some in pots though! I but most of our rhododendrons at Glendoick.
It is a lovely Rhododendron, thank you for visiting my site.
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I love Rhododendrons so I am intrigued with this one with the red buds. It would add some winter interest to the garden.