The Chenshan Botanical Garden – located in East China's Shanghai – welcomed the spring season with the grand opening of its 2024 Spring Flower Exhibition on Feb 8.
Among the many great displays, the exhibition area in the A Greenhouse – the Tropical Flower and Fruit Pavilion – is widely said to really stand out, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of alpine rhododendron flowers.
Together, let's take a closer look at some of the standout varieties that are stealing the limelight at this year's show!
Phylliskorn
This delightful variety boasts pure white petals with eye-catching yellow-brown dapples at the center. [Photo/Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden]
The flowers, arranged in clusters of 13-15, exhibit a late-blooming charm. Known for its sturdy structure, Phylliskorn's petals withstand wind and direct sunlight effortlessly. The glossy green, wide oval-shaped leaves add to its overall allure.
Tortoise Shell Orange
For those seeking a burst of color, Tortoise Shell Orange delivers a punch with its enchanting orange-red flower clusters tinged with a glorious pink hue. [Photo/Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden]
This compact, spherical plant with glossy leaves is perfect for adding a vibrant touch to gardens, flower beds, hedges or spacious terraces.
Percy Wiseman
Percy Wiseman, a beloved semi-dwarf variety, sports cream-colored flowers that transform into a milky white shade over time. [Photo/Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden]
Its spherical flower clusters and yellow throat make it an ever-popular choice. Introduced in 1958, it earned the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society in 1993.
Mollis Sinensis Rose
Known as the "salmon pink" looker of the exhibition, the Mollis sinensis rose features creamy yellow flowers with orange-yellow central split petals. [Photo/Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden]
The narrow, elongated petals create a unique funnel-shaped bloom, adding a touch of chic elegance to the display.
Golden Flare
Discovered in 1969, the Golden Flare boasts yellow single-petaled flowers with split petals ranging from a deep golden tinge to light brown. [Photo/Shanghai Chenshan Botanical Garden]
Its purple-brown buds add an intriguing contrast before blooming, featuring a flower diameter of 6-7 centimeters.
