Labrador Tea

Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum), offered by Akène

?? An aromatic and resistant native shrub ??

Labrador tea is a hardy perennial shrub , well adapted to the boreal forests and acidic peat bogs of Canada and Greenland . With its twisted shape , its green leaves with a downy orange underside and its clusters of white spring flowers , it brings a natural and authentic touch to naturalist gardens and rockeries.

?? Versatile and ornamental , it thrives in acidic, peaty or sandy soils , while offering significant medicinal and ecological interest .

Characteristics of the variety

?? Flowering : May to June
?? Height : 30 to 120 cm
?? Spacing : 50 cm
?? Exposure : Sun, partial shade
?? Life cycle : Perennial
?? Soil type : Peat, acidic
?? Soil moisture content : Medium to soggy
?? Deer Resistance : Moderate
?? Seeds per packet : 50

Sowing and cultivation

?? Cold Stratification Required : Place seeds in moist mix (peat, perlite, or potting soil) and refrigerate for 30 days .
?? Sowing : Sprinkle on the surface of a well-moistened substrate, rich in peat moss.
?? Light essential : Do not cover the seeds, they need light to germinate.
? Germination : 15 to 30 days under growth lamps (16h/day).
?? Maintain humidity : Keep the seedlings under a plastic dome or in a bag until the first true leaves appear.
?? Transplanting : When seedlings reach 1 inch (2.5 cm) in height , divide them and transplant individually.

Medicinal and culinary uses

?? Infusions with soothing properties : Labrador tea leaves are used in herbal tea to support the immune system, relieve inflammation and promote digestion .
?? A spice with woody and lemony notes : Its unique, resinous and slightly sweet taste enhances sauces and simmered dishes .

Ecological roles and utilities

?? A refuge for biodiversity : Its flowers attract pollinators , while its leaves serve as shelter for small insects and birds.
?? A soil stabilizer : It contributes to the regeneration of wetlands and helps preserve peat ecosystems .
?? An asset for naturalist gardens : It brings a rustic and unique touch to ecological gardens and rockeries.

Why grow Labrador tea?

?? A native shrub easy to grow in acidic soil
?? Ornamental foliage and flowering in spring
?? A unique medicinal and culinary use
?? An excellent choice to promote biodiversity

Add this exceptional shrub to your garden to enjoy its benefits while supporting the ecosystem!