ASU scientists elaborated on rhododendron vegetation

Every year Altai tourist season begins with a major festival called Rhododendron Blossom, although it might not be as bright and colourful in 2017. The fact is that numerous tourists, locals and even passers-by damage the plant significantly. Everyone tries taking home a part of this extraordinary beauty. Some break the branches of Siberian sakura, others dig out the bushes.

“There is no use in transplanting the blooming rhododendron, as it will simply die. The plant is very delicate and can only be transplanted in spring or late autumn, when it does not vegetate. Moreover, these plants take roots very rarely. Rhododendron grows on steppificated rocky hills, in undergrowth or on moss. 95% of transplanted rhododendrons die,” says director of ASU South-Siberian Botanic Garden Alexander Shmakov.

Rhododendron is considered to be a healing plant, which is used to cure different diseases. It contains essential oils, tanning agents, gallic and ascorbic acids and a lot of microelements. Along with that, rhododendron is a very poisonous plant. That is why it must be treated with caution.

Rhododendron is a rarity for Altai Krai, so it has been listed in Altai Krai Red Book since 2001. It must be noted, that according to regional laws and regulations, red-listed plants and animals destruction incurs administrative liability. The amount of penalty can be up to 5,000 roubles (approximately 80 USD).