Photo: Lapland Rosebay

Rhododendron lapponicum L.

Lapland Rosebay

Habitat: Arctic and subarctic regions, to (often magnesian and calcareous) barrens and cliffs. [Alpine or subalpine (non-forested, upland)]

Range: Circumboreal, south to the higher mountains of New England and New York, and rarely to central Wisconsin.

Aids to Identification: Most Rhododendrons in Maine can be recognized by their showy corollas of fused petals. The corolla is not constricted at the opening, but is bell-shaped or flaring. The flowers have 5-10 stamens and a conspicuous, long style. This dwarf, alpine shrub is easily distinguished from other Rhododendron species by its thick, leathery, evergreen leaves which are only 1-1.5 cm long and covered with small, dot-like scales. The bell-shaped (campanulate) flowers are bright purple and 1.5 cm wide.

Photo: Lapland Rosebay

Ecological characteristics: In Maine, this species is known to occur only above treeline on Mount Katahdin.

Phenology: Flowers in June.

Family: Ericaceae

Synonyms: Azalea lapponica L.

Known Distribution in Maine: This rare plant has been documented from a total of 1 town(s) in the following county(ies): Piscataquis.

Reason(s) for rarity: Disjunct from principal range.

Conservation considerations: Populations could be threatened by heavy recreational (hiking) use.