Rhododendron subsect. Ledum

Rhododendron subsect. Ledum

Rhododendron subsect. Ledum, commonly known as Labrador tea, is a subsection of the genus Rhododendron in the family Ericaceae. This subsection is native to North America, Europe, and Asia, and is known for its evergreen shrubs that produce clusters of white flowers.

Taxonomy

Rhododendron subsect. Ledum was first described by the botanist Carl Linnaeus in 1753. The subsection includes several species, such as Rhododendron groenlandicum, Rhododendron tomentosum, and Rhododendron neoglandulosum. These species were previously classified under the genus Ledum, but were reclassified under Rhododendron based on molecular phylogenetic studies.

Description

Plants in the Rhododendron subsect. Ledum are small to medium-sized evergreen shrubs. They have leathery leaves that are covered in rust-colored hairs on the underside. The flowers are white, bell-shaped, and arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a dry capsule that splits open to release numerous small seeds.

Distribution and Habitat

Rhododendron subsect. Ledum is widely distributed across the northern hemisphere. It is found in North America, Europe, and Asia, particularly in boreal and Arctic regions. These plants prefer acidic, well-drained soils and are often found in peat bogs, heathlands, and coniferous forests.

Uses

Several species in the Rhododendron subsect. Ledum have been used for medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples. For example, Rhododendron groenlandicum has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, colds, and skin conditions. However, these plants contain toxic compounds and should be used with caution.

Conservation

While some species in the Rhododendron subsect. Ledum are common and widespread, others are considered threatened or endangered due to habitat loss and overharvesting. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these species and their habitats.

See Also

• Rhododendron
• Ericaceae
• Carl Linnaeus

External Links

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  Ledum glandulosum

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  Ledum Essential Oil