- Waxy coating: The leaves and stems of Labrador tea are covered in a thick, waxy coating to reduce water loss through transpiration and protect the plant from harsh weather conditions.
- Hairs: The leaves and stems of Labrador tea have small hairs that trap moisture and create a microclimate around the plant, helping to maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level.
- Sunken stomata: The stomata, or pores, through which plants exchange carbon dioxide and oxygen with the environment are sunken into the leaves of Labrador tea, reducing water loss through transpiration.
- Reddish pigments: The leaves of Labrador tea contain reddish pigments which help to absorb heat from sunlight, allowing the plant to photosynthesize efficiently even in cooler environments.
Root Adaptations
- Deep roots: Labrador tea has extensive root systems that penetrate deeply into the soil to access moisture and nutrients in an otherwise shallow soil ecosystem.
- Rhizomes: Labrador tea spreads through underground rhizomes, allowing the plant to quickly establish and form dense patches.
Seed Adaptations
- Wind dispersal: The seeds of Labrador tea have small, wing-like structures that allow them to be easily dispersed by the wind, maximizing the plant's chances of colonization and survival.
- Germination: Labrador tea seeds readily germinate in moist, shaded areas, taking advantage of the favorable conditions under the canopy of neighboring plants.