Herb: Lapland Rosebay


Latin name: Rhododendron lapponicum


Family: Ericaceae (Heath Family)



Edible parts of Lapland Rosebay:

A tea is made from the leaves and flower tips.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Evergreen
Shrub

Height:
100 cm
(3 1/4 foot)

Flowering:
April
to May

Habitat of the herb:

Rocky barrens and sub-alpine woods.

Propagation of Lapland Rosebay:

Seed - best sown in a greenhouse as soon as it is ripe in the autumn and given artificial light. Alternatively sow the seed in a lightly shaded part of the warm greenhouse in late winter or in a cold greenhouse in April. Surface-sow the seed and do not allow the compost to become dry. Pot up the seedlings when they are large enough to handle and grow on in a greenhouse for at least the first winter. Layering in late July. Takes 15 - 24 months. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, August in a frame. Easy.

Cultivation of the herb:

Rocky barrens and sub-alpine woods.

Medicinal use of Lapland Rosebay:

None known

Known hazards of Rhododendron lapponicum:

Although no specific mention of toxicity has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where many members have poisonous leaves. The pollen of many if not all species of rhododendrons is also probably toxic, being said to cause intoxication when eaten in large quantities.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.