Calico-bush
Kalmia latifolia
Calico-bush (mountain laurel) is a stunning native evergreen shrub that produces spectacular clusters of pink and white blooms in late spring, thriving in acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Plant it in dappled shade to part sun and mulch heavily to keep roots cool and moist. All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so keep away from children and grazing animals.
Toxicity Warning
Known to be toxic to horses.
Care Level
Moderate
Sun
Partial Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
Slow
Mature Height
12″ – 48″
Soil
loam
Life Cycle
Perennial
Spacing
60″
Flowers
purple
Watering Schedule
Every 7-10 Days • Water Deeply To Keep Soil Consistently Moist But Well-Drained; Never Allow Roots To Sit In Standing Water
Soil pH
4.5 – 5.5
Temperature
-25° – 95°F
Mature Spread
up to 36″
Root Depth
Medium
Foliage
Coarse
Native to
Attracts
Sources
Data: trefle, usda, aspca
Image: trefle.io — Taken Jun 26, 2019 by tom tom ahern (cc-by-sa)
No nurseries currently have this species in stock.