Flora Friday - Rhododendron

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Hello all! This week's Flora Friday is Rhododendron!


Rhododendron (Rhododendron) is an extremely large genus of plantsplants with over 1000 different species and it is part of the Eircaceae family. The word Rhododendron comes from the Ancient Greek words Rhódon (ῥόδον) meaning Rose and Déndron (δένδρον) meaning tree. I have determined that the Rhododendron pictured above is Pontian Rhododendron (Rhododendron Ponticum). Other names include:

- Common Rhododendron
- Pontic Rhododendron
- Rhododendron

The Rhododendron is also the national flower of Napal.



Where To Find

Pontian Rhododendron are native to the Iberian Peninsula of Southwestern Europe and the Caucasus Region of Northern Asia, it can also be found in England, Ireland, India, France, Belgium and Madeira although it is not native to these places. In the British Isles, this species likes woodland areas (preferably shady), moorlands and uplands. It is also used as an ornamental plant. 
There is also evidence to suggest that this plant grew naturally in Great Britain before the last Ice Age but failed to continue growing as the temperature and landscape changed over time (I bet that squirrel had something to do with it 👀...). 


The Pontian Rhododendron of the Iberian Peninsula are also remnants of the original Laurissilva Forests that used to cover the Iberian Peninsula some 66 million years ago.




Edible Parts

Whilst I have found evidence of medical uses (suggesting this plant can be consumed) some species are extremely fatal for animals to ingest and toxic to humans but the severity changes from species to species. The pollen and nectar of some of these species( Pontian Rhododendron included!) contains a toxin called Grayanotoxin and honey made from this can cause hallucinations and a laxative effect in humans. 




Medicinal Uses

For the species of Rhododendron that are safe to consume, I have found a multitude of medical properties. This table from Biomedcentral.com  has a more comprehensive overview than I can provide 👇🏻👇🏻



Do not consume without consulting experts and medical professionals!




Magical Uses

In magical practices, Rhododendron is used for:

- Spirit connection
- Calming
- Embracing personal power
- Balancing the Introverted and Extroverted
- Unconditional love
- Strengthening relationships

Rhododendron wood can also be used to make magical tools for your practice.




Victorian Flower Language

In Victorian Flower Language, Rhododendron signifies the you should beware of a person/situation. 






This blog is for educational purposes only, consult local experts if you're unsure. Consult your doctor before trying home remedies!

I would like to thank predictive text for making this post possible and I hope you've enjoyed this post!!



Blessings,

C )0(

👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻

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