Kalmia latifolia
Mountain Laurel
 
18-24" Large: Balled and burlapped
 
Kalmia latifolia, commonly known as Mountain Laurel, is an evergreen shrub native to the acidic, well-drained soils of New England's woodlands and upland slopes. It thrives in partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, provided soil moisture is consistent. This ericaceous species often forms dense thickets and grows in association with other acid-loving natives such as Vaccinium angustifolium (Lowbush Blueberry), Gaultheria procumbens (Wintergreen), and Comptonia peregrina (Sweetfern). While its ornate floral clusters attract various pollinators—including Bombus spp. (bumble bees), which navigate the plant’s unique spring-loaded anthers—Kalmia latifolia is generally avoided by herbivores due to its toxic foliage. However, the shrub provides valuable evergreen cover for birds such as Setophaga ruticilla (American Redstart) and Catharus guttatus (Hermit Thrush), which use its dense structure for nesting and protection.
 
NOTE: If you keep honeybees we do not recommend planting this species: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/kalmia-latifolia/