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Description
Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks, also known as Mountain Laurel, is a flowering evergreen shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 6-15 feet tall and 5-10 feet wide. It is a popular ornamental plant and is often used in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Kalmia |
Appearance
Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks has glossy, dark green leaves that are about 2-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are leathery and have a pointed tip. The plant produces clusters of pink, white, or red flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 1 inch across and have a distinctive shape, with five petals that curl back to reveal the stamens and pistil.
Care Guide
Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks requires well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 4.5-6.0. It prefers partial shade to full sun and is hardy in zones 5-9. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, especially during dry periods. Fertilizer can be applied in early spring using a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Pruning is not necessary but can be done after flowering to shape the plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including lace bugs, scale insects, and powdery mildew. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Root rot can occur if the soil is poorly drained or if the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks is native to the eastern United States, where it grows in woodlands and on rocky slopes. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It is often used in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive flowers and foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: When should Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks be pruned?
A: Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks should be pruned after flowering to shape the plant.
Q: How often should Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks be fertilized?
A: Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks should be fertilized once a year in early spring using a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks?
A: Kalmia Latifolia Tiddlywinks is hardy in zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Kalmia Latifolia ‘Elf’
- Kalmia Latifolia ‘Carousel’
- Kalmia Latifolia ‘Olympic Fire’
- Kalmia Latifolia ‘Pink Charm’
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation, and uses. Timber Press.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Kalmia latifolia L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=kala
- North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension. (n.d.). Kalmia latifolia. Retrieved from https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/mountain-laurel
