Ledum

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A type of low, bushy plant belonging to the heather family, commonly found in boggy areas and known for its aromatic leaves
2. A flowering shrub in the Ericaceae family that typically grows in wetland environments and bears small, often fragrant blossoms
3. An evergreen plant found in northern regions, characterized by its leathery leaves and clusters of bell-shaped flowers often attracting pollinators

Etymology: The genus name comes from the Greek "lēdon," the term ancient writers used for a sticky, fragrant resin. That resin, ladanum, was collected from the rock-rose "Cistus" and valued in the Mediterranean as perfume and medicine. The plants that carry the name are not related to rock-roses. They are heath-family shrubs of cold northern bogs, with leathery evergreen leaves whose undersides are covered in rusty, woolly hairs. The resemblance lies in the foliage. The leaves give off a strong, resinous scent when crushed, which likely explains why the name was transferred to them. Their most familiar common name is Labrador tea, because people in northern regions brewed the leaves into a drink. The same plant contains toxins, so brewing it requires care.

Synonyms: wild rosemary, marsh tea, Labrador tea