Kalmia latifolia Tad - Mountain Laurel

Kalmia latifolia Tad, also known as mountain laurel, is a real novelty, with larger, flatter, more numerous flowers of a lovely chocolate colour which are finely bordered with white . Its buds are also exquisite, as if dusted on a violet-grey background. This small evergreen shrub has slightly shiny, elliptical leaves, covering this elegant bush all year round with a satin robe. This new variety is undoubtedly destined for a bright future.

Kalmia latifolia belongs to the Ericaceae family, like Heather and Rhododendron. 'Tad' is a modestly sized variety, not exceeding 1 m (3 ft 4 in) in all directions, its growth is slow. Its well branched trunk gives it a bushy, compact and somewhat erect habit. Its evergreen foliage, medium satin green, with a lighter underside ensures decorative interest all year round. The leaves are tough and thick with a slight V shape. The plant is at its peak at the end of spring, in May-June, when it is completely covered with its unique flowers. Their waxy texture highlights the original pattern drawn on the petals. Each branch carries terminal clusters of up to 100 small predominantly chocolate flowers adorned with a speckled border and a white centre. They are very flared, becoming flat at maturity and measure 2.5 to 3 cm (1 to 1.2 in) in diameter. The purple stamens are housed on the petals. The flowers do not all bloom simultaneously, the unopen floral buds, contrast with the already blossomed flowers. After flowering, if they have not fallen, the flowers give way to brown capsule-shaped fruits, which last all winter.

Kalmias are unjustly unknown. Their flowers are enchanting,they are particularly hardy heathland bushes  that should be installed in semi-shade, moist and humus-rich soil. Undoubtedly unique because they are rare, Kalmia 'Tad' will be perfect to accompany and highlight your other ericaceous plants, Hydrangeas, Japanese maples, Magnolias for example. It will work wonders in an informal hedge, in mixed shrub planting, mixed into a perennial bed, around a pond, or even planted as a specimen. Due to its slow growth, it is perfectly suitable for pots on balconies or patios, provided the soil is kept constantly moist.

Properties:

Kalmia latifolia is a shrub which is entirely toxic to humans as well as for animals (dogs, cats, sheep, horses) when eaten, including its leaves, flowers, fruits and roots.