Wild rhododendron

Wild rhododendron is a large evergreen shrub that can grow up to six metres tall.

Description

• Leaves are dark green, leathery with smooth margins.

• Flowers are tubular, usually purple to violet in colour, with occasional brown spots on the lower lobes.

• The only rhododendron in New Zealand to produce roots from its branches (suckers).

• Seeds are dispersed by the wind and water. Vegetatively via suckering.

• Habitats include woodlands, moorlands, and rocky areas.

What you need to know

Wild rhododendron causes significant harm to native ecosystems by displacing native plants, blocking sunlight, and altering soil chemistry. It can form dense thickets, outcompeting other species for resources, leading to reduced biodiversity and potential impacts on animal populations.

Management approach

Wild rhododendron is declared an unwanted organism by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) because it is capable of causing harm to the natural environment, physical resources or human health in Aotearoa/New Zealand.

These species pose a high risk to our environment, economy, recreation, and cultural values.

Rules

Any species declared a pest, including unwanted organisms, cannot be sold or be in a place where plants are being sold. Pest plants cannot be propagated, bred, or multiplied, communicated, released, or cause to be released, or otherwise spread.

Control

Do not attempt to undertake control of wild rhododendron yourself. Report any sightings to us.