Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Ericales
Family:
Genus:
Species:
latifolia
ID:
356800

Status:
valid

Authors:
L.

Source:
cmp

Year:
1753

Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl. : 391 (1753)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000356132

Common Names

  • Kalmia latifolia
  • Mountain Laurel
  • Mountain Laurel

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Synonyms

  • Kalmia serotina Hoffmanns. [invalid]
  • Kalmia myrtifolia André [valid]
  • Kalmia nitida J.Forbes [valid]
  • Chamaedaphne latifolia (L.) Kuntze [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia obtusata (Rehder) Rehder [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia alba (Mouill.) Rehder [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia polypetala (G.Nicholson) Rehder [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia fuscata (Rehder) Rehder [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia latifolia [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia latifolia [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia polypetala G.Nicholson [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia obtusata Rehder [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia fuscata Rehder [valid]
  • Kalmia latifolia alba Mouill. [valid]

Description

Kalmia latifolia (also called Sheep Laurel, among many other common names) is an evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States. It has glossy, dark green leaves and small, white flowers that bloom in late spring. It grows in acidic, sandy soils in open woodlands and along the edges of swamps.

Uses & Benefits

Kalmia latifolia is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used as a source of food for deer, elk, and other animals.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

The flower of Kalmia latifolia is a small, white, star-shaped flower with a yellow center. The seed is a small, black, oval-shaped seed. The seedlings are thin, grass-like with a single stem and small, white flowers.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Kalmia latifolia is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that can reach up to 6 feet in height. It is native to the eastern United States and is hardy in USDA zones 4-8. It prefers moist, acidic soil and partial to full shade. Propagation is best done through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer months.

Where to Find Kalmia latifolia

Kalmia latifolia can be found in moist, acidic soils in the northeastern United States.

Kalmia latifolia FAQ

What is the scientific name of Kalmia latifolia?

Kalmia latifolia

What is the common name of Kalmia latifolia?

Mountain Laurel

What is the natural habitat of Kalmia latifolia?

Woodlands and thickets

Species in the Ericaceae family