Massive evergreen shrubs or trees with leaves up to 18 inches in length.This species forms forests in the eastern Himalaya, often attaining 50 ft. in height with a single trunk.In cultivation this species generally forms a large wide-spreading shrub or small tree.The magnificent foliage is a shiny green on the upper surface with a white, silvery or fawn, typically plastered indumentum on the lower.The flowers (early to mid-spring) are bell-shaped in a large, many flowered inflorescence (“truss”).They range in color from white to cream or yellowish (sometimes pinkish) with purple nectar pouches, blotches and spots.Best in a sheltered position as the growth emerges early in the season.Needs adequate summer irrigation to reach full potential.Native to forests from 7,000 to 10,500 ft. in the eastern Himalaya.
1966/554LOG(+10).
1971/338BROD (+10).
1981/109BS(+10).Form collected in Sikkim.
SEH#520These are grown from my collection of seed at 8,900 ft. in the West Bengal Himalaya.(+10\R1\6)RSBG#506sd1997
1997sd517SEH#531:RSBG(+15 to +10\R1\6).My own collection from glossy-leafed specimens growing at 8,900 ft. in the Sikkim Himalaya.Stunning red-purple new growth on these seedlings.The real thing.
