Lapland rosebay (Rhododendron lapponicum, Fl. lapp. 104. 1812)

Family: Ericaceae

Author: Wahlenb.

Bibliography: Fl. lapp. 104. 1812

Year: 1812

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Rhododendron

Vegetable: False

Observations: Subarctic to NC. & NE. U.S.A.

Description

Lapland rosebay, known scientifically as Rhododendron lapponicum, is a striking and resilient member of the Ericaceae family. First described in 1812 by Wahlenb. in his bibliographic work “Fl. lapp.,” this plant has captured the interest of botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.

This charming shrub is predominantly found in subarctic regions, extending its range into the northern central and northeastern parts of the United States. Its adaptability to harsh climates is reflected in its tough evergreen leaves and vibrant blossoms, which offer a splash of color amidst the often stark landscapes it inhabits.

Rhododendron lapponicum thrives in rocky terrains and acid soils, typical of its native habitats. During its blooming season, this plant produces clusters of delicate, bell-shaped flowers that range in color from deep pink to lavender, providing essential nourishment to pollinators in the colder climates. The blossoms usually appear in late spring to early summer, creating a brief but beautiful display that is eagerly anticipated each year.

Beyond its visual appeal, Lapland rosebay holds ecological significance. As a part of the subarctic ecosystem, it plays a role in preventing soil erosion and providing habitat and food for various insects and birds. Its presence indicates a healthy and balanced environment, making it a vital component of the flora in the regions it inhabits.

Despite the challenges posed by climate change, which threatens its native habitats, Lapland rosebay remains a symbol of resilience and beauty. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure that future generations can continue to appreciate this botanical gem’s unique charm and ecological importance.

Common Names

Nor: grøndlandsk ogenbrisk
Eng: lapland rosebay, lapland azalea, lapland rhododendron
Swe: lapinalppiruusu, lapsk alpros, alpros, fjällros
Fin: lapinalppiruusu
Nno: lapprose
Nob: lapprose
Sme: duottarčikŋa, daŋasruvsu
Fra: rhododendron de laponie, rosage de laponie
En: Lapland rosebay, Lapland Azalea, Lapland rhododendron
Fi: Lapinalppiruusu
Fr: Rhododendron de Laponie, Rosage de Laponie
Se: Duottarčikŋa, Daŋasruvsu
No: Grøndlandsk ogenbrisk
Nb: Lapprose
Nn: Lapprose
Sv: Lapsk alpros, Lapinalppiruusu, Alpros, Fjällros

Synonyms

• Rhododendron parvifolium subsp. confertissimum ((Nakai) A.P.Khokhr.)
• Rhododendron parvifolium f. albiflorum (Herder ex Maxim.)
• Azalea lapponica (L.)
• Rhododendron lapponicum var. roseum (Abrom.)
• Osmothamnus pallidus ((Turcz.) DC.)
• Rhododendron pallidum ((Turcz.) Dümmer)
• Azalea pallida (Turcz.)
• Rhododendron lapponicum var. viride (Berlin)
• Rhododendron micranthum (Maxim.)
• Azalea ferruginosa (Pall.)
• Rhododendron confertissimum (Nakai)

Distribution

• Alaska (native)
• Alberta (native)
• Amur (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• Finland (native)
• Greenland (native)
• Inner Mongolia (native)
• Kamchatka (native)
• Khabarovsk (native)
• Labrador (native)
• Magadan (native)
• Maine (native)
• Manchuria (native)
• Manitoba (native)
• Mongolia (native)
• New Hampshire (native)
• New York (native)
• Newfoundland (native)
• Northwest Territorie (native)
• Norway (native)
• Nova Scotia (native)
• Nunavut (native)
• Ontario (native)
• Primorye (native)
• Québec (native)
• Sakhalin (native)
• Sweden (native)
• Wisconsin (native)
• Yakutskiya (native)
• Yukon (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Mar 16, 2020 by Paerie Shareghi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2020 by Tor Sverre Fuglestein (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 4, 2022 by Judith Ouellet (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 14, 2022 by Matthew DreamsOfBunnies (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Sep 3, 2022 by orquidea (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 9, 2021 by Michael Vicedom (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 12, 2022 by Mark Boggis (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 22, 2022 by Roelof Zomers (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 4, 2022 by William Coville (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Bark

Taken Jan 28, 2022 by Maarten Vanhove (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2021 by Dieter Albrecht (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2020 by Bianca Legault (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Encyclopedia of Life (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 1, 2010 by Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh – Slide Library (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 17, 2015 by EOL − Keith W. Larson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 10, 2009 by Tela Botanica − Yoan MARTIN (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken May 4, 2019 by Schulz Andreas (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2883075)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1039541-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rhododendron lapponicum (L.) Wahlenb.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Shrub

Growth rate>: Moderate

Growth

Ph maximum: 6.1

Ph minimum: 4.4