A marvelous hide and speculation in the life of Rhododendron species at a glance

Rhododendron is a multi-quality, astonishing rose tree, having aristocratic role in human and animal’s life. This largest genus belongs to family Ericaceae and largest flowering plant of Asia. This genus having 1025 species and 10,000 of varieties worldwide and 571 species recorded in China, 155 endemic species in New Guinea, 16 at Russian Federation and 80 species in India. It grown in drained acidic soil in higher concentration in Eastern Himalayas. The soil, humidity, rainfall, light, temperature, altitude, slope and atmospheric pressure are the growth augmentation factors. Flowering occurs first at lower altitude during March-April. The altitude height shows negative correlation with the flower colour. Geitonogamous type of pollination produces highest fruit setting where self-pollination shows self-compatibility. The diploid species contain 2n = 2x = 26 and tetraploid 2n = 4x = 52 chromosome number. Due to global warming R. arboreum shows precautious flowering because of average temperature increases where ultraviolet rays increase in atmosphere which is responsible for early flowering in mountain plants. The genome mapping and identification and development of QTLs through DNA markers would make a revolution for the conservation and protection. Therefore it is necessary to encourage the traditional, scientific and molecular technologies and knowledge for improving the growth pattern of Rhododendron species.