Kalmia polifolia Swamp laurel (Ericaceae) Evergreen shrub

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Kalmia polifolia
Swamp laurel
Evergreen shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Kalmia polifolia plant species is found in Northern N. America - Newfoundland to Hudson Bay, southwards. Nat. in Britain in a bog in Surrey. It is a member of the Ericaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Swamp laurel. Some home gardeners know the variety as K. glauca.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Kalmia polifolia
Common Name:  Swamp laurel
Family:  Ericaceae
Author:  Wangenh.

Known Hazards:  The foliage is poisonous to animals[21, 65, 76]. The whole plant is highly toxic[222].

Mature Height:  0.5   Mature Width:  0.5

Habitat:  Cold peat bogs and other wet places[11, 200].

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]. A very cold-hardy plant, tolerating temperatures down to about -30°c[184]. A very ornamental plant[11], there are some named varieties[200]. Pruning is not normally necessary[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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