Leather Leaf
Chamaedaphne calyculata

Family: Ericaceae

What it is like

Chamaedaphne calyculata is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower from April to June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.8

Where it is found

Peaty swales, bogs, pine barrens, pond margins etc.

Europe, Asia, N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

An aromatic tea-like beverage is brewed from the fresh or dried leaves. Some reports say that boiling or steeping can extract a harmful toxin 'andromedotoxin' and it is recommended that the leaves are put in a jar of water and left in a sunny position to brew in order to make 'sun-tea'.

Tea: the various herb teas that can be used in place of tea, plus the genuine article.

Medicine

Rating: 1

A poultice of the leaves has been applied to inflammations. An infusion of the leaves has been used to treat fevers.

Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Other

Rating:

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Thrives in a moist well-drained lime-free soil in sun or semi-shade. Best if given some protection from the midday sun. Plants are hardy to about -25°c. There are some named forms, selected for their ornamental value. 'Nana' is a dwarf compact form that is good for shady areas. The flowers have a delicate refreshing scent.

Propagating it: Seed - sow February in a lime-free compost in a greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Do not allow the compost to dry out and keep the pot in a shady position. Germination is usually fair, taking 1 - 12 months at 15°c, though 4 weeks cold stratification may reduce this time. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of almost ripe side-shoots, 4 - 5cm long with a heel, August in a frame. A variable degree of success. It can help to prune the plants lightly after flowering in order to encourage vigorous growth from which to take the cuttings. Layering in August. Takes 18 months. High percentage.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Bog Garden;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 6-9

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

A toxin, called 'andromedotoxin' can be released from the plant if it is infused in boiling water. See notes below regarding use of the plant for tea.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Andromeda calyculata.