The history of representatives of the genus Rhododendron L. and prospects for their use

Rhododendrons Rhododendron L. are appreciated for their high decorative value, they are of scientific and practical interest. This genus includes about 1300 wild species and more than 10,000 varieties, represented by evergreen, semi-evergreen and deciduous shrubs, shrubs and rarely trees. This article presents brief facts about the history of the emergence of the rhododendron culture. A brief description of some species and varieties of rhododendrons is presented in terms of their decorative features, with the aim of further selection and use in in-vitro culture.