Bog Rosemary
andromeda polifolia
Also known as: ["Dwarf Andromeda","Marsh Andromeda"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to acidic, boggy habitats in the Northern Hemisphere, known for its needle-like leaves and delicate, bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Andromeda |
| Botanical Name: | Andromeda polifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: moist, shaded woodland gardens or boggy areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"−40–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"2–6"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to moist but not waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Acidic, peaty, and well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove no more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates 2–4 hours of morning sun or dappled light. Avoid intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a sheltered spot outdoors or in a north-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light; monitor for leaf scorch in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize morning watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
acidic, moist, well-drained peat-based soil
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; avoid alkaline amendments.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates cold down to -40°F (-40°C) but dislikes heat above 75°F (24°C).
Protect from extreme heat; ensure good air circulation; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; apply before new growth emerges in spring.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering. Softwood cuttings taken in early summer are most successful.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Early summer when new growth is semi-hardwood.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (60–70°F/15–21°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, peat-based medium, plastic cover or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun; check for roots after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; pinch back tips to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or weak growth, and encourage bushier form. Light pruning annually is sufficient.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or crossing branches; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil mix; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone until the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water penetrates the root ball and allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, pine bark, or compost to increase acidity and organic content; ensure good drainage with perlite or sand.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth but do not harm the plant unless combined with excessive moisture, which can cause root rot.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging in cold; protect from freezing winds; mulch around the base for insulation.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; avoid fertilizing during heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; stop in fall.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to grayanotoxins, which can cause severe cardiovascular and neurological distress. Toxicity can occur even with small ingestions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicGrayanotoxins in Andromeda polifolia can cause severe poisoning in dogs, affecting the heart and nervous system. Even small amounts can lead to significant health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAndromeda polifolia contains grayanotoxins, which interfere with cellular sodium channels, leading to cardiovascular and neurological effects. The toxicity is generally mild to moderate in humans unless ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Andromeda polifolia toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Where does Andromeda polifolia grow best?
A: It thrives in acidic, boggy, or moist soils in partial shade.
Q: Does Andromeda polifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and other pollinators with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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