Ledum glandulosum (Western Labrador Tea)

Plant Description: Labrador tea is a native shrub with smooth, brown bark and aromatic leaves. Its branches are hairy, dotted with resinous glands and support a leathery, evergreen foliage. Leaves are alternate and oblong, usually drooping. Each leaf measures up to 3 inches long and is dark green and smooth above, but glandular with whitish hairs bellow. Edges are slightly rolled under. Showy round-topped clusters of white or cream-colored flowers come into sight in spring. Individual flowers have 5 petals each, and a set of protruding stamens.

As its name indicates, the leaves of this plant can be used to make tea. Note: this species can be poisonous if ingested in large quantities. It should not be fed to wild or domestic animals. *NEVER CONSUME PLANTS WITHOUT PROPER ID*

• Height: 1-4ft
• Width: 3-4ft
• Watering needs: regular
• Sun needs: full to part shade
• Soil needs: wet to moist, very adaptable to soil texture and pH 
• Bloom Time: May

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: This native plant is found in peat lands, bogs, and swampy areas, typically in acidic and humus-rich soils. It grows at low to high elevations along the Columbia River and the Pacific Coast from British Columbia through Central California. We recommend using this plant in rain gardens. It is an excellent plant to repel mice, rats, and moths.