Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope
Contents
Description
Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope, also known as Mountain Laurel, is a flowering evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. This plant is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 6-15 feet tall and 5-8 feet wide. Mountain Laurel is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and glossy foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Kalmia |
Appearance
Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope has dark green, glossy, and leathery foliage that is 2-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are arranged in whorls, giving the plant a unique appearance. The flowers are pink, red, or white and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The blooms appear in late spring and early summer and are approximately 0.5-0.75 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope is a low-maintenance plant, but it requires specific growing conditions to thrive. Here are some care guidelines:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry periods. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is formulated for acid-loving plants.
- Soil: Plant the shrub in well-draining, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it benefits from afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves.
- Phytophthora Root Rot: This disease is caused by a water mold and can cause the plant to wilt and die.
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and stippling on the leaves.
- Scale Insects: These insects suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and wilting.
Habitat
Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope is native to the eastern United States and can be found growing in the understory of deciduous forests, on rocky slopes, and in bogs and swamps. It prefers acidic soils and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope grow in full sun?
A: Yes, but in hot climates, it benefits from afternoon shade.
Q: Does Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I fertilize Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is formulated for acid-loving plants.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Kalmia Latifolia Kaleidoscope?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Kalmia latifolia ‘Elf’
- Kalmia latifolia ‘Carousel’
- Kalmia latifolia ‘Sarah’
- Kalmia latifolia ‘Pink Charm’
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Kalmia latifolia. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281747
- Rhoads, A. F., & Block, T. A. (2007). The Plants of Pennsylvania: An Illustrated Manual. University of Pennsylvania Press.
