Castle Kennedy Gardens

Our Rhododendron arboreum are spectacular!

Castle Kennedy Gardens holds the record of having the tallest Rhodoendron arboreum subsp. cinnamomeum in UK, British Champion Tree - tallest. Height, 13 metres, diameter 37cm, girth 116cm. This is an orginal Joseph Hooker introduction.

Rhododendron is derived from Greek word: “rhodo” means “rose” and “dendron” means “tree.”. A large, evergreen tree, leaves are broad, dark green with brown hairs on the underside. Large cluster of 15-20 bell shape scarlet, pink or white flowers are produced in Spring.

Symbolism: Riches and prosperity, unwavering belief and faith.
In Nepalese culture, the flower is often associated with purity, love, and patriotism.

Uses: The flowers can be eaten, made into pickles, dried for tea, and chewed to treat dysentery. A fish poison can be made from the young leaves, and the juice is sprinkled on mattresses to kill bed bugs. The wood is prized for making bowls, spoons and furniture.

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