R. praestans

Photo by Bob Zimmermann

R. praestans is a wonderful HARDY slow-growing member of the majestic big leaved rhodies that give a bold “tropical” look in the landscape.  This one has a shiny bronzy-brown plastered indumentum on the back of long rugulose leaves that taper at the base.  As the plant matures, the indumentum will become shiny gray-white to fawn.  The winged petiole is another detail that establishes  praestans’ identity.

R. praestans  is the slowest growing of the “big leaves” and so will not take over the entire garden.  It also is one of the hardiest, so it does well here in the Northwest.  It comes from a limited area at the corner of Yunnan, Sichuan and Burma.

 During the difficult "late summer, early freeze" in November 2010, brave young praestans plants overwintered under the trees in the garden and emerged in spring 2011 looking absolutely wonderful.  Their toughness makes them an almost "sure guarantee" for hardiness in our interesting NW climate

 Praestans would appreciate

 A mix of sun and shade – a woodland setting is perfect

 Small amounts of fertilizer on Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day

Gentle watering that keeps it moist

Good drainage with well-aerated (loose) soil

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Last modified: 09/11/11  Copyright by Chimacum Woods, September 2005  All rights reserved.  

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