KALMIA
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KALMIA
Commonly known as Calico bush, Mountain laurel
Exquisite little flowers like parasols opening from crinkled buds.
Genus of 7 species of evergreen shrubs from woodland, swamps and meadows in North America and Cuba.
Because of its toxicity, particularly to sheep and goats, care should be taken to prevent access to livestock.
Full Plant Details - Sun/Soil & other attributes
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Floweringlocal_floristJanlocal_floristFeblocal_floristMarlocal_floristAprlocal_floristMaylocal_floristJunlocal_floristJullocal_floristAuglocal_floristSeplocal_floristOctlocal_floristNovlocal_floristDec
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Good to know
Wildlife plant - nectar and pollen for insects -
Pests & Diseases
None -
Place of origin
Eastern USA -
Resistant to honey fungusThese plants have little or few problems with honey fungus.
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EvergreenOval to elliptic-lance-shaped, glossy, dark green leaves to 12cm (5in) long
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Shades of pink
All shades of pink through to Carmine (red) -
Bowl-shapedOr cup-shaped
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BorderSuitable for a shrub border
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Fully hardy
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Entire
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Elliptic
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Lanceolate
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Height
1.2m (4ft) -
Spread
1.2m (4ft) -
Medium shrubTypically grow to around 4-6 feet in heightDense, spreading shrub. Produces flowers 2-2.5cm (¾-1in) across in large clusters 8-10cm (3-4in) across
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Pruning group 5
Suitable for: Evergreen shrubs that require minimal pruning.
Action: Trim or lightly cut back shoots that spoil symmetry. Deadhead regularly.
When: Annually after flowering.
Renovate over several seasons -
Hardy - very cold winter
Hardy in all of UK and northern Europe. Plant can possibly withstand temperatures down to -20°C (-4°F) -
Summer Seasonal Interest
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Acid / ericaceous loving
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Fertile moist well-drained soilHumus-rich. Mulch annually with leaf mould in spring.
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Full sun
Where soil remains reliably moist -
Partial shade
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harmful if eaten
People and pets, i.e. cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents, tortoises -
Bee friendly
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Rabbit Resistant
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Mature Size1.2m (4ft)
1.2m (4ft)
View Planting Tips and Care Advice
Kalmia - Growing Guide
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