Overview
Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum is a bushy shrubs in the genus Rhododendron, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include woodland gardens and containers on shaded patios.
About
Rhododendron tomentosum, commonly known as marsh Labrador tea, northern Labrador tea, marsh rosemary or wild rosemary, is a flowering plant in the subsection Ledum of the large genus Rhododendron in the family Ericaceae.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Rhododendron
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Woodland gardens, Containers on shaded patios
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering, Grafting
- Pest resistance
- Vine weevil, Rhododendron leafhopper, Pieris lacebug, Scale insects, Caterpillars, Aphids
- Disease resistance
- Powdery mildews, Rhododendron petal blight, Rhododendron bud blast, Silver leaf, Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum?
Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum need?
Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum hardy in the UK?
Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Rhododendron tomentosum subsp. subarcticum?
Semi-ripe cuttings, Layering, Grafting.
More in the Rhododendron genus
- Rhododendron 'Black Beauty'

- Rhododendron 'Ed Hillary'

- Rhododendron 'Falling Snow'

- Rhododendron 'Karminduft' (A)

- Rhododendron 'Libretto'
- Rhododendron 'Lugano'

- Rhododendron 'Ada Lavleisa'rhododendron 'Ada Lavleisa'
- Rhododendron 'Amarlie Crowden'