Rhododendron
Rhododendron (from the Greek rhodos, 'rose', and dendron, 'tree') are shrubs of the family Ericaceae. It is a large genus with over 800 species, and most have flower displays. Found chiefly in mountainous areas of the arctic and north temperate regions and also mountainous tropics. They are particularly abundant in Asia. They commonly have large, shining, leathery evergreen leaves and clusters of large pink, white or purplish flowers. Photograph taken at Parkhall. Parkhall Countryside Park in Stoke-On-Trent, Staffordshire is situated in Stoke South parliamentary constituency; Parkhall comprises of 333 acres based on a sandstone ridge. The geological features give the park its status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and it also has National Nature Reserve (NNR) status. Mentioned in 1449 as a deer park, drift coal mining started in the 19th Century. Between 1939 and 1970 quarrying of sand and gravel took place; afterwards it was used as a rubbish tip. In 1971 Stoke-On-Trent City Council and Staffordshire County Council drew up plans to reclaim the land with the park opening in 1981. The stone formation make it place of geological interest. Over 100 species of birds have been recorded. Rarieties include: firecrest, crossbill and hoopoe. All five species of British owl have been seen. There are 20 small pools with newts, frogs, toads and Europe's largest dragonfly - The Emperor. Mammals include: rabbits, hares, stoats, foxes and badgers. Wild flowers include: lady's smock, tormentil, trefoils, vetches, buttercup, cow parsley, hogweed, woody nightshade (bittersweet) and orchids. 19 species of butterfly have been recorded including: orange tip, brimstone, speckled wood, small pearlboarded fritillary, small copper and meadow brown.
Size: 3518px × 5314px
Location: Parkhall Countryside Park, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire
Photo credit: © dean nixon / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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