Firecracker Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia 'Firecracker'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
36 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging
Humidity
Prefers moderate to high humidity
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Toxic if ingested, keep away from pets and children
The Story
Plant Bio
An evergreen shrub known for its stunning red blooms and glossy green foliage. Notable for its vibrant, fire-engine red flowers that stand out in the landscape.
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining, acidic soil with organic matter.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage root growth.
- Plant in a partially shaded location for optimal growth.
- Water consistently, especially during dry periods, for healthy development.
- Fertilize with an acid-loving plant fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
Pro Tip
Use a mulch of pine bark or pine needles to retain moisture and maintain soil acidity.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged 🌱
- Apply acid fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer
- Prune after flowering to shape the plant
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture and acidity
Don't
- Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t use alkaline or lime-based fertilizers
- Refrain from heavy pruning during late fall or winter
- Avoid planting in full sun, which can scorch leaves
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Firecracker Mountain Laurel questions
What zones can Firecracker Mountain Laurel grow in?
Firecracker Mountain Laurel is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Firecracker Mountain Laurel deer resistant?
Yes — Firecracker Mountain Laurel is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Firecracker Mountain Laurel bloom?
Firecracker Mountain Laurel typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Firecracker Mountain Laurel need full sun?
Firecracker Mountain Laurel does best in part shade.
More Kalmia to compare
Sarah Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia 'Sarah'
Minuet Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia 'Minuet'
Olympic Fire Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia 'Olympic Fire'
Elf Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia 'Elf'
Carol Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia 'Carol'
Keepsake Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia 'Keepsake'
Keep exploring
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Grow Firecracker Mountain Laurel with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
