Rhododendron quarter

The rhododendron quarter is located at the southern end of the main avenue (group 45). In spring, numerous rhododendrons unfold their full flowering splendour here and transform this area of the Garden into a sea of colour. The plants have been growing here since the 1970s. Both cultivated and wild varieties are displayed in an area that extends to the neighbouring Belvedere Alpengarten (alpine garden).

Growing rhododendrons in Vienna is difficult. The various species and varieties need acidic soil, high humidity and abundant rainfall to thrive, such as those found in the Atlantic climate of Western Europe. The hot and dry continental climate in the Vienna region, on the other hand, is not favourable for the cultivation of rhododendrons. In addition, the soil in the Garden is slightly alkaline, which is why special acidic soil must be used in the rhododendron area. Sooner or later, however, even this special soil will become too alkaline due to the calcareous water used for irrigation. The rhododendrons will then no longer be able to survive here and will have to find a new place elsewhere in the Garden.