An evergreen species with bell-shaped white flowers, this plant was discovered on the Japanese island of Yakushima. The
plants were first exhibited at Chelsea in 1947 to great acclaim.
This species has been hugely influential in the development of
rhododendrons for smaller gardens
Plant Champion: Rodney Tucker, 70 from Hemel Hempstead Environmental scientist Rodney spent a lot of time working in Western China and remembers being amazed at the variety of English garden plants that grow wild there. Asian rhododendrons are a particular favourite and he enjoys growing the dwarf varieties that are more manageable for gardens.