shrubN. America Native

Carol Mountain Laurel

Name: Carol Mountain Laurel
Brand: Kalmia
Availability: InStock

Kalmia latifolia 'Carol'

$44.00

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Very long-lived

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Kalmia latifolia, or Mountain Laurel, is a spectacular broadleaf evergreen shrub native to eastern North America, celebrated for its unique and intricate cup-shaped flowers. 'Carol' is a prized selection featuring abundant clusters of nearly pure white flowers that open from contrasting pink buds, creating a beautiful bicolored display on a compact plant.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides multi-season interest with its glossy evergreen leaves and incredibly detailed, show-stopping flowers in late spring. The gnarled, interesting branch structure adds winter character.

Its dense, evergreen nature makes it suitable for foundation plantings or informal hedges in woodland settings, providing structure and screening year-round.

Native to North America, it supports native bee populations. The dense branches can offer shelter for birds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Rocky Knoll Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$44.00

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a location with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Ensure the soil is acidic, humus-rich, and well-drained.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Gently tease apart the roots and place the plant in the hole.
Backfill with amended soil, ensuring the crown is slightly elevated.
Water deeply and apply a layer of acidic mulch.

Pro Tip

Plant high, with the root crown slightly above soil level, to ensure excellent drainage.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Maintain consistently moist, but not soggy, soil.
Mulch annually to protect the shallow roots and retain moisture.
Deadhead spent flower clusters to promote vegetative growth.
Test soil pH and amend if necessary to keep it acidic.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy clay or poorly drained soils.
Avoid using general-purpose fertilizers; use one for acid-loving plants.
Don't plant too deep, as this can lead to root rot.
Avoid cultivation around the base, as roots are shallow and easily damaged.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning woodland garden specimenEvergreen foundation plantingMixed border accent with rhododendrons

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Pieris japonica Fothergilla gardenii Helleborus Bleeding Heart (Dicentra spectabilis)

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Carol Mountain Laurel questions

What zones can Carol Mountain Laurel grow in?

Carol Mountain Laurel is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Carol Mountain Laurel deer resistant?

Yes — Carol Mountain Laurel is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Carol Mountain Laurel bloom?

Carol Mountain Laurel typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Carol Mountain Laurel need full sun?

Carol Mountain Laurel does best in part shade.