Alpenrose (Rhododendron ferrugineum)

Family: Ericaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Rhododendron ferrugineum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1.5 m (5ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in leaf all year, in flower in June, and the seeds ripen in August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid soils and can grow in very acid soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Mountain slopes in open woods or scrub, often dominant in the dwarf shrub zone. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)