The LAPPONICUM Rhododendrons, so-called 
because related to R. lapponicum, an arctic species, 
have very small leaves, in some a mere quarter of 
an inch long, always evergreen but drooping and 
curling in very cold weather. 
Though from the snow line, most of them can be made to 
thrive and bloom at sea level, the main display about May, then 
an occasional flower or two throughout the season until frost. 
The secret of success is water — a wet soil well drained. Some 
expect a little shade, but to flower properly most of them need 
full sun, and are not in the least afraid of heat if kept sopping. 
(Stars, where mentioned, refer to ratings given by the Rho¬ 
dodendron Association, England, with 4 the maximum. Some of 
the newer introductions are not yet rated.) 
RHODODENDRON ACHROANTHUM, from an 
area along the upper Yangtze, grows into a shrub- 
let with very short twigs, and with leaves less than 
an inch long. Found in nature on open cliffs, it ap¬ 
pears to prefer the open here, with plenty of moist¬ 
ure. In the moraine it has endured uninjured 100 
degrees above and 25 below zero. Flowers in 3s a 
dull, deep magenta red. 
4 to 8 inches high in 3-inch pots 75 cents each 
RHODODENDRON CANTABILE. 4 stars. Larg¬ 
er, to 3 feet, with leaves an inch long. Flowers dark 
