Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia and cvs.) KAL-mee-ah lat-ih-FOE-lee-ah Genus:  Kalmia

This U.S. native shrub has glossy, dark green leaves. Bowl- or cup-shaped pink to white flowers are borne in large clusters from late spring to midsummer. Cultivars include white-flowered 'Pristine', suitable for Zone 8; red-budded, pink-flowered 'Olympic Fire' and 'Sarah'; compact 'Elf' and 'Minuet'; and, for Zone 5, red-budded ‘Nathan Hale’ and 'Ostbo Red'.

Care: 

Cultivars must be chosen carefully to suit growing conditions. Mountain laurel thrives in acidic, well-drained soil. In the South and mid-Atlantic region, it needs morning sun and afternoon shade to flower well. It will grow in full sun in the North and at higher elevations in the South.

Propagation: 

Greenwood cuttings in late spring, or semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer.

Problems: 

Fungal leaf spots and blights, leaf gall, powdery mildew, weevils, scale insects, lace bugs, and borers.

Overview

Height 6 ft. to 10 ft. Spread 6 ft. to 10 ft. Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Dry to Medium Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Spring, Summer Flower Color Pink, Red, White Foliage Color Variegated Foliage Uses Beds and Borders Style Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Shrubs