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| Kalmia latifolia
Mountain kalmiaCulture: Like other Ericaceous plants, this species needs moist, acidic, organic and well-drained soils. It should be planted in partial to moderate shade and mulched to retain soil moisture. Plants will tolerate full sun if soil moisture is adequate and the site is reasonably cool. Use organic mulches such as pine needles or shredded bark to conserve and even the supply of soil moisture and eliminate cultivation around the shallow and fibrous roots. Assuming a proper cultural environment is provided, the species is relatively trouble-free, although leaf spot may be an occasional problem. Usage: The Mountain-laurel kalmia makes an excellent specimen or shrub as part of the flower border. The lateness of the flower display comes at a time when many of the rhododendrons have already finished flowering. It is nicely used as an understory plant among limbed-up deciduous or evergreen trees for naturalizing purposes. When grown as an understory plant, the reach of the branches for the light will take on small tree-like dimensions. Usage in the Midwest is limited by our environment, including soils that are lacking in acidity and poorly drained, and cold dry winter winds. Modification of our soils is essential to successful cultivation in the Midwest. The foliage of this genus is toxic to livestock and humans. |
