Labrador Tea

Rhododendron groenlandicum

Illustration: Labrador tea (Rhododendron groenlandicum) with rusty leaf undersides

Identification: Low evergreen shrub of bogs; narrow leaves with RUSTY-ORANGE FUZZY undersides (the key ID); white flower clusters.

Dangerous look-alikes: BOG ROSEMARY and BOG LAUREL share the bogs and are TOXIC — both lack the rusty fuzzy leaf undersides. Check every plant: flip the leaf, confirm the rust-colored felt.

Edible parts: Leaves (for tea).

Season and habitat: Year-round. Acid bogs, muskeg.

Preparation: Steep 1 teaspoon dried leaves per cup, 5–7 minutes — fragrant, warming tea of the North. Use in moderation; strong brews of close relatives are narcotic, so positive ID and light brewing matter.

Notes: The rusty-felt underside is everything — no felt, no tea.