Overview
Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc. is a shrub species that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is endemic to North America and is commonly found in the Pacific Northwest area of the United States and southwestern British Columbia in Canada. This species has several common names, including Western Labrador tea, sticky Labrador tea, and glandular Labrador tea.
Appearance
Western Labrador tea has a somewhat upright form, typically growing 3 - 6 feet tall. The leaves are deciduous, alternate and leathery, with small, sticky, glandular hairs on the underside of the leaves. Flowers bloom from April to May and are white or pink in color. The plant produces fruit that is a small, dry capsule that ripens from August to September.
Uses
The Indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest have traditionally used Western Labrador tea for medicinal and ceremonial purposes. The leaves of the plant are used to make tea, which has a distinct flavor that is similar to mint. It was used as a substitute for tea during the American Revolution when tea was scarce. The leaves have also been used to treat various ailments, including colds, fever, and stomach pain. Additionally, the plant's woody stems have been used for weaving baskets and making tools. Today, it is mainly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Growth Conditions of Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc.
Light Conditions: Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc. thrives in areas with full to partial sunlight exposure. The plant can tolerate some shade but prefers direct sunlight for the better part of the day. In shaded areas, the plant tends to have fewer blooms and may grow leggy and weak.
Temperature: This plant typically grows in cold regions with temperatures ranging from -50°C to 18°C. It is highly adapted to harsh, cold environments and needs cool temperatures to thrive. In areas with warm temperatures, it may be challenging to grow the plant without extra care and precautionary measures.
Soil Requirements: Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc. grows best in acidic, well-draining soils. The ideal soil pH range for the plant is between 4.5 and 6.0. The plant is highly tolerant of nutrient-poor and rocky soils, making it a good candidate for growing in alpine regions and other harsh environments. It is essential to ensure good drainage conditions in the soil to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot in this plant.
Cultivation Methods
The Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc. is a hardy plant that grows well in USDA zones 4 through 8. It prefers moist, acidic soils and partial to full sun exposures. This plant can be propagated from seeds or through stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
This plant requires consistent moisture levels in the soil. It is best to water regularly, especially during the hot, dry summer months. Watering can be reduced in the fall and winter when the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
The Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc. requires minimal fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. However, too much fertilizer can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
This plant can be pruned in the spring after flowering has ended. It is important to avoid cutting into old, woody growth as new growth is produced from the stem tips. Removing dead or damaged branches can help improve the overall appearance of the plant.
Propagation of Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc.
Propagation can be done through various methods, including division, stem cuttings, and seed propagation.
Division
Division is the easiest method of propagating Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc. This method can be done in early spring, just as new growth begins. Dig up the mature plant and divide it into smaller clumps with a sharp clean knife or garden spade, making sure each division has a healthy root system. Each clump can be planted into well-draining soil with adequate moisture and sunlight.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in early to mid-summer, using current season's growth. Select a healthy, non-flowering stem that is 3-4 inches long, with at least one set of leaves. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in a well-draining soil mixture with adequate moisture and sunlight, and keep the soil moist until the cutting has rooted.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is a bit more challenging and can be done in the fall. Collect the seed heads once they have dried on the plant and remove the seeds from the pod. The seeds should be stratified for 60-90 days in the refrigerator to break down their natural dormancy. After stratification, sow the seeds in well-draining soil mixture and place the container or seedbed in a partially shaded area with adequate moisture. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management
Ledum glandulosum Nutt. ssp. australe C.L. Hitchc. is a naturally disease-resistant plant. However, it can still be susceptible to a few common diseases. Here are some tips for managing them:
Phytophthora Root Rot
This disease can cause wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. It is caused by a water mold that thrives in overly wet soil. To manage Phytophthora root rot: - Plant L. glandulosum in well-draining soil - Don't overwater your plant - Apply a systemic fungicide as a preventative measure
Rust
Rust looks like small, yellow-orange spots on the leaves. It can weaken the plant if left unchecked. To manage rust: - Remove infected leaves as soon as you spot them - Apply a fungicide as a preventative measure
Pest Management
Like with diseases, L. glandulosum is relatively pest-resistant. However, there are a few common pests that may bother it:
Spider Mites
These tiny pests can be tough to spot, but you'll notice the damage they do. Leaves may turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites: - Spray your plant with a strong stream of water to knock off the mites - Apply an insecticidal soap - Keep the humidity level up around your plant, as spider mites thrive in dry conditions
Leaf Miners
Leaf miners are the larvae of certain types of flies. They create mines or trails in the leaves, which can weaken the plant. To manage leaf miners: - Remove and destroy infested leaves - Apply an insecticide as a preventative measure - Encourage beneficial insects, such as parasitic wasps, that feed on leaf miner larvae
