Rhododendron pronum Tagg & Forrest

Creeping shrub, 0.15–0.6 m; perulae persistent. Leaves (4–)6–7.5 × 1.8–2.8 cm, elliptic, apex acuminate, lower surface with a dense greyish to fawn two-layered indumentum, the upper layer loosely lanate-tomentose, composed of ramiform hairs, the lower compacted; petioles glabrescent. Flowers 6–10, in a tight truss; calyx 1–2 mm; corolla white or cream to pink, with purple flecks, funnel-campanulate, nectar pouches lacking, 35–45 mm; ovary and style glabrous. Flowering May. Royal Horticultural Society (1997).

Distribution  China W Yunnan

Habitat 3,650–4,400 m

RHS Hardiness Rating H6

Conservation status Vulnerable (VU)