Marsh Labrador Tea
ledum palustre
Also known as: ["Labrador Tea","Northern Labrador Tea"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to northern regions, known for its aromatic leaves and use in traditional teas.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Ledum |
| Botanical Name: | Ledum palustre |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: moist, shaded woodland areas or bog gardens
- 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 fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Acidic, peaty, and well-draining soil. A mix of peat moss, pine bark, and sand or perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light). Adjust for intense summer sun to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if moving from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun, especially in summer. Indoors, place near an east or north-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid intense afternoon sun; provide dappled light in hot climates; rotate the plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to slightly dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings; avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
acidic, moist, peaty soil with good drainage
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in prolonged heat above 80°F (27°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Fertilize sparingly to avoid burning; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage and moisture retention.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of older branches and light shaping of new growth. Avoid heavy shearing.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth. Pruning also improves air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/diseased wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root suffocation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss or pine bark to increase acidity and organic matter. Incorporate perlite or sand to improve drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration, but the plant is generally hardy to cold. Prolonged freezing may damage tender new growth.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or mulch. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in damp, cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. Heat stress may lead to dehydration and nutrient uptake issues.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to compensate for evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Ledum palustre. Ingestion can result in severe neurological and gastrointestinal symptoms, which can be life-threatening without timely treatment.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ledum palustre can lead to severe toxicity due to the presence of neurotoxic compounds. These substances can cause significant neurological and gastrointestinal distress, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLedum palustre, commonly known as marsh tea or wild rosemary, contains toxic compounds such as ledol and palustrol, which can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with the nervous system and can lead to significant health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ledum palustre safe for pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: How should I care for Marsh Labrador Tea?
A: It prefers acidic, moist soil and partial shade, with moderate watering and protection from extreme heat.
Q: Can Ledum palustre be used for tea?
A: Historically, its leaves were used to make tea, but caution is advised due to mild toxicity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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