Rhododendron columbianum, commonly known as western Labrador tea, is an evergreen shrub native to a variety of habitats including sphagnum bogs, wet meadows, and moist forest understories across western North America, from British Columbia to California and eastward to Colorado. It thrives at elevations from sea level up to 11,000 feet. This plant typically forms low to medium-sized clumps, spreading by underground rhizomes. The leathery, evergreen leaves are notable for their fragrant quality when crushed, and the shrub produces clusters of showy white to cream flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.

Western Labrador tea is valued for its hardiness and adaptability to wet conditions, making it suitable for bog gardens and restoration projects. It is also appreciated for its fragrant foliage and attractive flowers. In cultivation, it requires consistently moist soil, partial to full shade, and cool environments to thrive. While it has been used medicinally, caution is advised due to its potential toxicity when over-consumed. Gardeners should be aware that Rhododendron columbianum can be susceptible to root rot if drainage is poor.CC BY-SA 4.0