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Description
Kalmia Buxifolia, also known as the Boxleaf Laurel, is a small evergreen shrub native to the Southeastern United States. It is a member of the Ericaceae family, which includes rhododendrons and blueberries. The shrub is known for its small, glossy leaves and showy clusters of pink, white, or red flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Kalmia |
Appearance
Kalmia Buxifolia grows up to 5 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with a dense and rounded form. The leaves are small, measuring up to 0.5 inches long and 0.25 inches wide, and have a glossy texture. The flowers are arranged in showy clusters at the ends of the branches and measure up to 0.5 inches in diameter. The flowers come in shades of pink, white, or red and have a unique shape with five fused petals that form a bowl-like structure.
Care Guide
Kalmia Buxifolia requires well-draining soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. It prefers partial shade to full sun, but will not tolerate hot and dry conditions. The shrub should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells, but should not be overwatered. Fertilize with an acid-based fertilizer in the spring and fall. Kalmia Buxifolia is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalmia Buxifolia is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including lace bugs, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Lace bugs can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves, while spider mites can cause stippling and webbing. Powdery mildew can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent these issues, keep the plant healthy and well-watered, and prune out any affected branches.
Habitat
Kalmia Buxifolia is native to the Southeastern United States and can be found in the coastal plain from Virginia to Florida. It grows in moist, acidic soils in wooded areas, along edges of swamps, and in bogs.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kalmia Buxifolia toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Kalmia Buxifolia is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: How often should Kalmia Buxifolia be pruned?
A: Kalmia Buxifolia should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Q: Can Kalmia Buxifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Kalmia Buxifolia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Kalmia Buxifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Kalmia Buxifolia is attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Kalmia latifolia (Mountain Laurel)
- Kalmia angustifolia (Sheep Laurel)
- Kalmia polifolia (Bog Laurel)
References
- “Kalmia buxifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c303.
- “Boxleaf Laurel.” NC State Extension, 1 Jan. 1998, content.ces.ncsu.edu/boxleaf-laurel.
- “Kalmia buxifolia.” Plant Finder, www.plantdelights.com/products/kalmia-buxifolia.
