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.

1966/554   LOG  (+10).

1971/338  BROD (+10).

1981/109  BS  (+10).  Form collected in Sikkim.

SEH#520  These are grown from my collection of seed at 8,900 ft. in the West Bengal Himalaya.  (+10\R1\6)  RSBG#506sd1997

1997sd517  SEH#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.