Rhodora

Rhodora (Rhododendron canadense)

Bloom time: May - June

Additional photos:

• Rhododendron canadensis just before first bloom
  credit: Rowena Hopkins
• Rhododendron canadensis past mid bloom
  credit: Madonna Bishop
• Rhododendron canadensis flower
  credit: Madonna Bishop

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

• 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.

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."