Evergreen Shrubs (Flowering) – Mountain Laurel

Botanical name: kalmia latifolia

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: up to 40 ft in height and 8 ft in width

Bloom time: spring and summer

Hardy zone: zones 4-9

Flower color: white and pink

Foliage color: green

Growth rate: up to 1 ft per year

Pruning instructions: prune to maintain desired size and shape in the late spring/early summer

Propagation methods: propagate using cuttings

Landscape use: ornamental appeal

Light needs: 3-6 hours of sun per day

Special features: distributes pollen

Watering instructions: prefers consistently moist soil but can handle slight dryness

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow release tree and shrub plant food once a month in the spring or summer

Best time to plant: spring or fall

Best type of soil: loam

Companion plants: ferns

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested

Invasive species: not invasive