Looking for an evergreen shrub fully hardy yet just that little bit more unusual, then check out Kalmia Latifolia.
A dense bushy shrub with oval lance shaped glossy dark green leaves, new leaves are an interesting pink/bronze shade, flowers of pink/red and white in early Summer. Also known as the Calico bush or Mountain Laurel.
Several varieties avalable all of which are fully hardy. Tallest is Clementine Churchill at 10ft, with rich pink flowers, Bullseye has red banded white flowers. The one chosen for our new border is Myrtifolia, the glossy leaves are two inches long, flowers in May/June are a pale pink. With a height of four feet I think we have found the ideal spot in our garden for this little beauty.
Kalmia require an acidic soil and grow well in partial shade, in northern areas plant in a sunnier position where the soil is not too dry.
Hardiness – Fully Hardy
Position – Full sun/Partial shade. Plant in a moist humous rich acid soil. Mulch in Spring with leaf mould
Height – Tallest varieties 10ft, shorter ones 3/4 ft
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my mum and i are looking for the laurel mentioned above and wondered if you could give us some info on it. can we buy thru post or is there somewhere you can suggest
Hi Rhona
Not sure which part of the country you live. First of all I think you should visit your local garden centres. If you live in the Aberdeen area check out Ben Reids, they are very good and if they do not have it in stock I am sure they will order it for you. It is available mail order from http://www.jacksonsnurseries.co.uk/plantcard/KalmiaLatifolia/213.aspx?gclid=CPXB6rzOmKUCFdD-2AodUxgDJQ .