Kalmia latifolia

Product Info

Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
Heath Family

Mountain Laurel is an evergreen shrub native to the woodlands of Eastern North America. Often associated with mountain habitat, Mountain Laurel is commonly found in a range of habitats, including near the coast. In late spring, Mountain Laurel blooms with dense clusters of star-shaped flowers in a range of colors, from pure white to soft pink, and deep magenta, often with striking purple markings. These blooms are set against the backdrop of its leathery leaves, which provide an attractive, year-round display.

Mountain Laurel thrives in acidic, well-drained soils in partial to full shade. It can be sited in full sun if soils are consistently moist, well-drained, and rich. It does not tolerate heavy clay soil that holds too much water. Better drainage can be made by planting young plants in a high mound made up of natural soil, compost, and pine fines. Mountain Laurel is a very slow grower, but mature plants are worth the wait. It is considered very deer resistant, mainly due to high toxicity in all parts of this shrub.

Blooms: Pink/White, 4-6 weeks, April-June
Leaves: Dark, leathery green leaves are evergreen
Height: 4-15'
Space: 4-8'
Soil: Well drained, rich, acidic, moist soils
Exposure: Full shade, Part Shade, Part sun, Full sun
Fauna: Hummingbirds, butterflies, long-tongue bees
Deer Resistance: Hugh
Zone: 4-9
Native Status: NC native, common across the state
Provenance: NC, seed grown