Rhododendron mucronulatum


Rhododendron mucronulatum, the Korean rhododendron or Korean rosebay, is a rhododendron species native to Korea, Mongolia, Russia, and parts of northern China. It is a deciduous shrub that grows to in height, with elliptic or elliptic-lanceolate leaves, long by wide. The reddish-purple flowers appear in late winter or early spring, often on the bare branches before the foliage unfurls. It inhabits forested regions at.
The Latin specific epithet mucronulatum means "sharply pointed", referring to the leaf shape.

Cultivation

The cultivar 'Cornell Pink' has light pink flowers, and has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. It is hardy down to but like most rhododendron species requires a sheltered position in dappled shade with acid soil that has been enriched with leaf mould.

Culinary use

In Korea, the flowers are used in pan-fried flower cakes called hwajeon, which are traditional for Samjinnal, a spring festival. It is also used in infused liquor.