Kalmia polifolia
Bog-Laurel
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Bog-Laurel (Kalmia polifolia) - Description
Kalmia polifolia, commonly called bog-laurel or swamp laurel, is an evergreen shrub of cold acidic bogs, in the family Ericaceae. It is native to north-eastern North America, from Newfoundland to Hudson Bay southwards. Its leaves are arranged oppositely on the branch. They are waxy with an entire, revolute margin. The base of the petiole is pressed against the stem.
Bog-Laurel (Kalmia polifolia) - Blooming
Blossoms are cup shaped with stamens radiating to anther sacs in the flower walls. Dark dots around the sacs. Flowers in 2 inch clusters, often pinkish.
Bog-Laurel (Kalmia polifolia) - Growth
Evergreen shrub. Laurel-like leaves look a lot like those of rhododendron. Mulch regularly in spring with organic matter, such as leaf molds or pine needles. Kalmia grows best in partial shade. Can grow in sun only if the soil remains moist most-all of the time.
Bog-Laurel (Kalmia polifolia) - Planting
Propagate with seed in spring. Can also use greenwood cuttings (in spring) or semi-ripe cuttings (in summer). Layering can also be carried out in summer.
Bog-Laurel (Kalmia polifolia) - Pest
Weevils, lace bugs, scale insects, and borers. Other problems include fungal leaf spots, powdery mildew, leaf gall, and blights, all of which occur on occasion.
Bog-Laurel (Kalmia polifolia) - Interesting facts
All plant parts can cause upset stomach, so do not consume. They are also dangerous to sheep, goats, and calfs, which can die if they graze this plant.
Bog-Laurel (Kalmia polifolia) - Soil and irrigation
Fertile, humus-rich, acidic soil. Well-draining, but moisture retentive situation in garden.
