20. The Wax Chamber

In the eastern Himalayas there is a small group of Rhododendrons with unusual narrowly bell-shaped flowers, varying from yellow to purple. This is the R. cinnabarinum-group. The colour and form of the flowers, as well as their unusual, wax-like consistency, is classically associated with bird-pollination.

The few cultivars of these species are very special and elegant. Unfortunately, most are barely hardy in our climate, and they certainly need a protected corner. Several are known to be susceptible to mildew. The safest bet in our region is ‘Biskra’

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