Andromeda polifolia

RHS Plant Profile
bog rosemary

Other common names

marsh andromeda, marsh holy rose, marsh rosemary, moorwort, North American wild rosemary, rhosmari gwyllt

Synonyms

Andromeda rosmarinifolia

Trees Shrubs

Upright or semi-prostrate, evergreen shrub about 40cm tall, with wiry stems and linear, dark green leaves to 3.5cm long. White or pink flowers on slender stalks in 2-5 flowered clusters from spring to early summer

Position

Full sun, Full shade, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained or Poorly–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full sun Full shade Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Andromeda are small evergreen shrubs of low, spreading growth, with narrow, leathery leaves and umbels of small white or pink urn-shaped flowers in spring and early summer
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, acid, humus-rich soil in sun, part or full shade

Propagation

Propagate by layering, softwood cuttings, and suckers

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Pruning group 10. Prune after flowering is finished, remove dead, diseased or damaged branches

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free