Rhododendron plant--Hacput variety

Abstract

A new and distinct variety of Rhododendron russatum which originated as a chance seedling in a cultivated area is provided. The new variety possesses flowers which are of a highly attractive violet-blue color, and exhibits good tolerance to extremes in temperature.

I claim: 
     
       1. A new and distinct variety of Rhododendron russatum, substantially as herein shown and described, characterized particularly as to novelty by the unique combination of: (a) a bushy, well-branched and vigorous growth habit,   (b) flowers of striking violet-blue color,   (c) improved hardiness compared to the russatum species, and   (d) improved tolerance to extremes of both cold and heat when compared to the Blue Tit and Blue Diamond varieties and varieties of the impeditum species.