Bog rosemary
Andromeda glaucophylla

Family: Ericaceae

What it is like

A low evergreen shrub. It has tough short branches. These root along the ground. The leaves are small, oblong and leathery. The flowers are small and in short sprays at the ends of the branches. The flowers are urn shaped with a narrow mouth.

There are 2 Andromeda species.

Where it is found

A cool temperate plant. It grows in the colder parts of the northern hemisphere. It grows in moist, well drained acid soils. They can tolerate frost. It cannot tolerate drought. It probably suits hardiness zones 2-9.

Countries/locations it is found in

Arctic, Australia, Canada, Europe, North America, USA

How it is used for food

The leaves are used to make a tea. CAUTION: Boiling can release a harmful toxin called andromedotoxin.

Edible parts

Leaves - tea, caution

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed or small tip cuttings. Suckers or layering can also be used.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Andromeda polifolia var. glaucophylla (Link) DC.; and others