Kalmia Latifolia

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 available 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 Kalmia latifolia f. 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 requires 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 humus rich acid soil. Mulch in Spring with leaf mould

Height – Tallest varieties 10ft, shorter ones 3/4 ft

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