Species mountain laurel

mountain laurel

Kalmia latifolia 'Elf'

Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Elf') is an evergreen shrub native to the Appalachian Mountains in the United States. Growing up to 3m tall, this shrub has shiny, dark-green leaves which contrast with its clusters of white, pink and red blooms in mid-to-late spring. 'Elf' is a dwarf variety, topping out at 1.2-1.5m, making it perfect to assemble a colorful and low-maintenance hedge. Long-lasting, the thick foliage of mountain laurel stays deep green all year adding a mountainy feel to any garden. Resistant to most pests and diseases, this shrub is perfect for gardeners of all levels.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Layering Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Buds-pink; flowers-white Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Mountain laurel should be watered thoroughly and deeply once a week during the active growing season (spring to fall). During hot weather you may need to water more frequently (every 3-4 days). In the winter, water less as little as once every 2 weeks. To figure out if you need to water, dig your finger into the soil around the shrub. If it is still moist, you don't need to water. If it is dry, give it a deep watering that saturates the soil 8-10 inches below the surface, because mountain laurel has a deep root system and benefits from deep watering.

sunlight

Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Elf') should receive at least 8 to 10 hours of direct sunlight each day. It can take full sun or partial shade, but the most optimal growth occurs when more sun is provided. Morning sun is preferable to afternoon sun. The Plant also thrives in full shade if conditions allow for good air circulation and the soil remains damp and fertile.

pruning

Mountain laurel should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. Pruning away dead or damaged stems, reducing the overall size of the shrub, and removing crossing or overly dense branches will help to open up the plant canopy and ensure plenty of light penetration. If making a drastic reduction in size, it is best to do it in stages over a few seasons. Be sure to make even pruning cuts and to minimize any large wounds that may leave the plant vulnerable to disease.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Mountain laurel typically starts flowering in late April or early May.

Hardiness Map