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Description
Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is also known as Mountain Laurel, Calico Bush, and Spoonwood. It is native to eastern North America and grows in acidic soils in the wild. Its scientific name “Kalmia latifolia” is derived from the Swedish botanist Peter Kalm and the Latin word “latifolia,” meaning “wide-leaved.”
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Kalmia |
| Species | Latifolia |
Appearance
Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red is a compact, evergreen shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall and wide. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are about 2-5 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a leathery texture. The flowers bloom in late spring and are in clusters at the end of the branches. They are bell-shaped, about 1 inch wide and have a deep red color. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains many small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red requires consistent moisture, especially during the first year of growth. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can damage the roots.
Soil: Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red prefers well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, amend it with peat moss or other organic matter to lower the pH level.
Sunlight: Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun with adequate water.
Hardiness Zones: Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red is susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and aphids. To prevent these problems, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Treat with fungicides or insecticides if necessary.
Habitat
Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red is native to eastern North America and grows in acidic soils in the wild. It is commonly found in woodlands, rocky slopes, and along streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red deer-resistant?
A: No, Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red is not deer-resistant.
Q: Can Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I prune my Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red?
A: Prune your Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red after it has finished flowering in the spring. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Is Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red toxic to pets?
A: Yes, Kalmia Latifolia Ostbo Red is toxic to pets if ingested.
Related Plants
- Kalmia latifolia ‘Elf’
- Kalmia latifolia ‘Sarah’
- Kalmia latifolia ‘Carousel’
References
- “Kalmia latifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h270.
- “Kalmia latifolia ‘Ostbo Red’.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/797/ostbo-red-mountain-laurel/.
- “Kalmia latifolia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 7 Apr. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalmia_latifolia.
