Scientific name: Kalmia latifolia
Family: ERICACEAE
Common names: “Mountain laurel” “calico bush” “spoonwood tree”
Plant Type: Evergreen shrub
Conditions:
Zone: 4-9
Light: Full sun – part shade
Exposure: Sheltered
Soil: Acidic humus rich
Moisture: Evenly moist well drained
Aesthetic:
Plant Size: H & W 5-15′
Leaf and Stem shape: Glossy dark green leaves
Flower: Large clusters of bright pale pink flowers, opening from deeper pink, crinkled buds in late spring and early summer
Pruning: Minimal – none
Maintenance: Low, enjoys a mulch
Landscape use: Cut flower, Japanese garden, accent, specimen, foundation
Propagate: By cuttings
Pests & Disease: Fungal leafspot, galls, scale, lacebug
Comments: Unique flower but very picky with the growing conditions, must be just right
Cultivars: ~AGM winners: K. l. ‘Pink Charm’ , K. l. ‘Olympic Fire’ , K. l. ‘Little Linda’ , K. l. ‘Freckles’
Vancouver Island Grows 