Kalmia latifolia Mountain laurel (Ericaceae) Evergreen shrub

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Kalmia latifolia
Mountain laurel
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Kalmia latifolia plant species is found in Eastern N. America - New England to New York south to W. Florida. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Mountain laurel. Some home gardeners know the variety as K. lucida.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Kalmia latifolia
Common Name:  Mountain laurel
Family:  Ericaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  The foliage is poisonous to animals[21, 65, 76]. The whole plant is highly toxic[222]. Cases of poisoning have occurred when livestock or game birds have been eaten after they have ingested this plant[238].

Mature Height:  3   Mature Width:  3

Habitat:  Rich rocky, or dry gravelly woods in the shade of deciduous trees, and swamps in acid soils[43]. Prefers sandy or rocky soils[235].

Cultivation Notes: Requires an acid humus-rich soil, succeeding in part shade[182] or in full sun in cooler areas. Prefers almost full sun[11]. Dislikes dry soils[182], requiring cool, permanently moist conditions at the roots[21]. Succeeds in open woodland or along the woodland edge[200]. Plants are very cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures down to about -30°c[184]. A very ornamental plant[11], there are many named varieties[182]. This species is not very easy to grow well in Britain, it probably prefers a more continental climate[11]. This species is the state flower of Connecticut[238]. Slow to rejuvenate if the plant is cut back[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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