Rhodiola rosea is the botanical name (genus and species) for the medicinal herb that we grow. Although we have only been growing R. rosea in Canada for 15 years, we have started to climb the learning curve on how to do it correctly. We now know that different strains of Rhodiola rosea are better suited to different local environments.
First things first, we must be able to positively identify Rhodiola rosea in the field at any stage of growth. Fortunately, that’s easy because in Canada there are very few plants with a similar look. We need to do better than that, though. The best method for positive identification is through traceability. As GACP-certified growers we maintain the seed source and must provide proof of source for all field lots. In addition, all lots are tested for concentrations of the secondary metabolites – rosavins and salidroside. That is the ultimate confirmation of identity.
Good – now that we know what we are growing, let’s look at plant variations that are called strains. Strains are not the same thing as hybrids or varietals. Strains are species differences found in nature. These are changes within the the plant as it develops and responds over years/millennia to cope with its environment. Rhodiola rosea grows in the Northern Hemisphere and prefers a circum-polar environment – in others words, the colder the better. But we now know that certain strains prefer slightly different cold environments. For example, some strains are more tolerant of soils that retain moisture and others like well drained soils. All R. rosea prefer ample moisture, but they will hang in there in drought conditions, too. As we maintain communication among growers, we learn what conditions and what strains are working to produce the best quality. Some of our growers are now refusing to grow certain strains because their yields are poor. For other farmers the strain vs. yield can be reversed. And we’re only beginning to delve into the available strains.
One might say that different strains of Rhodiola rosea have adapted to different environments over the course of time. And it’s up to us to learn more about the different strains and their preferences for living and thriving. Maybe at some point in the future we can isolate and breed for the best yields, but for now we’re just trying to crack the code on what makes R. rosea flourish. Each strain has its preferences and appears to be designed for specific environments. We appreciate the hard work and commitment of our growers as we continue to learn more about this amazing plant.
