Kalmia latifolia aka Mountain Laurel
Taxonomy
Common names
Mountain Laurel, Calico Bush, SpoonwoodHow to care for Mountain Laurel
Difficulty
Mountain Laurel presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.
Water
Mountain Laurel should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Mountain Laurel loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Mountain Laurel prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it's common for Mountain Laurel to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.
Fertilizer
The growth rate of Mountain Laurel is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.
Region of origin
Mountain Laurel’s native range is Eastern N. America - New England to New York south to W. Florida.
More info:
Wikipedia