Rhodora (Rhododendron canadense)
Bloom time: May – June
Additional photos:
General: A common small shrub that covers bogs and other swampy areas with a carpet of purple blossoms, rhodora is a member of the heath family.
Leaves & Twigs
Flowers & Fruits:
- The shrubs are a tangle of grey-shaded branches and twigs, except for a rare green variety in parts of Nova Scotia.
- The small hairy leaves unfold in June.
Habitat: Prefers bogs and swampy areas.
PlantWatch Pointers: Tag a typical shrub for observation.
To Observe:
- First bloom: when the first flowers are open on the observed shrub (3-places).
- Mid bloom: when 50% of the flowers are open on the observed shrub.
Distribution Map:
This species is monitored in:
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Nova Scotia
- Prince Edward Island
- Quebec
The breathtaking nature of the rhodora flowers have inspired many, including poet W. E. Marshall, who wrote the love poem “Brookfield.”