The Mountain Laurel (genus = ‘Kalmia’) has lots of different native varieties and cultivars within it. A Kalmia Mountain Laurel covers itself in constellations of flowers in the late spring. After the flower display is over, its evergreen glossy leaves look great year-round.

Mountain Laurels are a perfect shrub to plant in highly visible areas—they look great all the time. If you live in the Northeast, Midwest, or Mid-Atlantic, plant a few Mountain Laurels when you can.

Since we’re talking about names, you may also be wondering…

All three of these shrubs get confused for good reason—they have a lot of similarities. We have a guide to all three aptly called Azaleas vs Mountain Laurels vs. Rhododendrons—what’s the difference? for learning more.

And now, let’s go on to meeting some native Mountain Laurels…