Family: Ericaceae
Author: L.
Bibliography: Unknown
Year: Unknown
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Ledum
Vegetable: Unknown
Observations: Unknown
Description
Marsh labrador tea, known scientifically as Ledum palustre, is a fascinating evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. This resilient plant thrives in the cool, damp environments typically found in bogs, marshes, and wet tundra regions. Widely distributed across the Northern Hemisphere, its native range encompasses parts of North America, Europe, and Asia, making it a plant adept at enduring harsh, cold climates.
Characteristically, marsh labrador tea grows to a modest height of about 0.5 to 1.2 meters. Its distinctive appearance includes narrow, leathery leaves with rolled edges, a unique adaptation that helps minimize water loss in its often windswept and cold habitats. The leaves are dark green on top, while the undersides are covered with a dense, woolly, rust-colored fuzz – a feature that serves both protective and insulating purposes.
In addition to its hardy foliage, marsh labrador tea is also known for its aromatic quality. Crushing the leaves releases a strong, spicy fragrance, underlined by hints of pine and rosemary, which is both pleasant and distinctive. This characteristic scent has historically made the plant a popular choice for natural insect repellents.
In the flowering season, typically from late spring to early summer, marsh labrador tea adorns itself with small, white to pale pink flowers. These blossoms grow in terminal clusters and provide a striking contrast to the dark green leaves, attracting a variety of pollinators. However, while these flowers add to the plant’s visual appeal, it’s essential to note that all parts of the plant contain toxic compounds, which can be harmful if ingested by humans or livestock.
Despite its toxicity, marsh labrador tea has been utilized by various indigenous cultures for its medicinal properties. Traditional applications include using the leaves in teas or infusions to treat respiratory ailments, such as colds and coughs, although modern use requires careful dosage and supervision due to its potent chemical constituents.
Ecologically, marsh labrador tea contributes significantly to its native habitats. It offers food and refuge for various wildlife species. The dense foliage provides cover for small animals and insects, while its flowers support pollinators in regions where blooming plants can be scarce.
In summary, Ledum palustre, or marsh labrador tea, stands out not only for its hardiness and distinctive aromatic leaves but also for its ecological and historical significance. As a member of the Ericaceae family, it plays a crucial role in the ecosystems it inhabits and holds a storied place in traditional medicine, albeit with a caveat regarding its potentially toxic properties.
Common Names
En: Marsh Labrador tea, Labrador-tea, Wild Rosemary
Nl: Moerasrozemarijn
Fr: Lédon des marais
De: Sumpf-Porst
It: Rosmarino selvatico
Cy: Llwyn y Gors, Te Labrador
Synonyms
Distribution
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jun 3, 2022 by Smilla P (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2022 by David Sedlák (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 20, 2022 by Alexander Baransky (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 23, 2021 by norbert verneau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 6, 2020 by Max Rykaczewski (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jul 1, 2020 by TaylorJo (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2022 by Dave Leni (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2022 by Chris E (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 23, 2021 by norbert verneau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 10, 2021 by L Warren (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jun 21, 2020 by George Annette (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 21, 2020 by George Annette (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 23, 2019 by Dostálek Tomáš (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 17, 2020 by Svjatoslav Svjatoslav (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 17, 2020 by Agata Bzdak (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jul 18, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 9, 2022 by Alexander Baransky (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 20, 2022 by Alexander Baransky (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jul 22, 2020 by Yannika Poirier-Martin (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 21, 2020 by George Annette (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 1, 2020 by Rollin Inge (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 12, 2021 by HeyZeus (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 15, 2020 by Marianne Morency-Landry (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jun 18, 2019 by MikkeMT (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ledum palustre L.)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2882977)