ForestHarvest: non-timber forest products in Scotland

 PRODUCTS

Rhododendron (Rhododendron ponticum)

Description

Large shrub (or small bushy tree) with glossy leaves and spectacular pink flowers.

Habitat

Naturalised in woodlands, particularly in the west of Scotland.

Uses

The foliage is sold to florists for use in arrangements and wreaths.

The wood is dense and good for carving; it also makes very good firewood.

Gathering

The best stems are unbranched. These are produced most abundantly as regrowth, i.e. after the plant has been cut.

Image provided by William Milliken/RBGE

Other information

This species tends to take over woodlands, inhibiting the growth of native species. This makes it a conservation concern. It should be possible to develop a management strategy that would meet the needs of foliage collectors and conservationists alike.

Rhododendron management [PDF]