| Genus | Rhododendron |
|---|---|
| Species | niveum |
| Authority | Hook.f.[1] |
Rhododendron niveum () is a rhododendron species native to northeastern India (including Sikkim), Bhutan, and southern Tibet in China, where it grows at altitudes of 2600-3500 m ft. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows to 2-6 m ft in height, with leathery leaves that are oblanceolate to elliptic, 8.5–11 by 3.6–4.6 cm in size. When young the leaves are covered in a white indumentum, which falls off the upper surface but remains on the underside.[2] The flowers are an intense magenta or lilac,[3] and held in a compact ball above the leaves.[2]
Cultural depictions
Rhododendron niveum is the state tree of the Indian state of Sikkim.
References
- ^ "Rhododendron niveum", J. D. Hooker, J. Hort. Soc. London. 7: 78. 1852.
- ^ "Rhododendron niveum". Trees and Shrubs Online. International Dendrology Society. Retrieved 22 April 2021.
- ^ He Mingyou & David F. Chamberlain. "Rhododendron niveum". Flora of China. Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis, MO & Harvard University Herbaria, Cambridge, MA. Retrieved 20 May 2013.