Caucasian rhododendron. Karachay-Cherkess Republic

Caucasian rhododendron, or mountain rose (also known as snow rose), is one of the symbols of Karachay-Cherkessia, which has even found its place on the coat of arms of the region. In early summer, the honey-bearing and healing plant decorates green alpine meadows and the banks of hundreds of crystal-clear mountain rivers and lakes of the republic, located at an altitude of more than 2000 meters, with its blossoms. Having caught the fragrance of the delicate flower once, mountain lovers return to it again and again. Rhododendron is an endemic of the North Caucasus and is listed in the Red Data Book.

Caucasian rhododendron (popularly known as alpine or mountain rose) is an evergreen shrub of the Heather family (Ericaceae). It is the largest species in the heather family, in height reaches 1-1.5 meters. This ancient plant originated on earth several million years ago. Its name comes from the Greek words "ronon" — rose and "dendron" — tree. Italian physician, philosopher and botanist Andrea Cesalpino in 1585 gave a name to plants of this genus - rhododendron. In total, rhododendron counts about a thousand species, there are five of them in the Caucasus. This shrub prefers moist, cool habitats, forms a specific tier of vegetation on slopes.

Rhododendron blooms in early summer. Its lush inflorescences of cream and pale pink color form giant flowerbeds, beautifully combined with dark green foliage. Caucasian rhododendron can withstand a snow cover up to 1.5 meters thick, excellently strengthens soils and slopes and prevents their destruction.

It is a tannic, essential oil and medicinal plant, is also a honey bearer. It is used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and rheumatism. Medicines derived from the leaves of Caucasian rhododendron, are prescribed for mercury poisoning, diseases of the mucous membranes and headaches. Since the Caucasian rhododendron has a huge number of useful properties, it is widely used in alternative medicine. It is used in the form of tea, infusion, and also as a remedy for external application, but only for medical indications. There are many ways to prepare medicine from parts of his bush.

In culture, it has been known since 1803, but it is quite rare, as it is difficult to cultivate. Leaves of this plant are sold in souvenir shops and in the markets of resorts in Karachay-Cherkessia.

If you delve into the history of Karachay-Cherkessia, you can learn an amazing fact — in the old days, rhododendron was used to make gunpowder. It was made of sulfur, saltpeter and a special plant. The peoples of the North Caucasus used some substitutes or special local additives when making gunpowder. For example, nettle served as the most important component for making gunpowder in some peoples of the North Caucasus. In the mountains of Karachay-Cherkessia, such a local substitute, based on folklore data, was grated rhododendron.