Kalmia latifolia

Kalmia latifolia is a species of flowering plants of the Kalmia genus of the Ericaceae family.

 

Widely spreading shrub 1.5-3 m high, in its homeland rarely a tree up to 10-12 m tall and with almost the same crown diameter. Evergreen leaves are similar to laurel leaves, elliptical-lanceolate, 50-10 cm long, dark green above, slightly yellowish below.

Saucer-shaped pale pink flowers are unusually colorful, which contrast well with ten dark anthers. Before blooming, the stamens are in dimples at the base of the flower.

 

Calmia flowers are distinguished by an interesting adaptation to cross-pollination. The structure of their flower is such that the thin filaments are elongated arcuate, and the anthers abut against pocket-shaped projections on the petals. At the moment of opening the bud or with a weak touch to it, the filaments quickly straighten, and mature anthers eject pollen through the apex opening of the nests.

 

Flowers are collected in corymbose inflorescences located at the ends of the shoots and covering the entire crown during flowering. Flower diameter 2-2.5 cm. Flowering time in southern Russia falls in mid-May and June. After flowering, a rounded ligneous capsule is formed, densely packed with small seeds, which ripen in October. Kalmia broadleaf grows well both in sunny places and in partial shade. Sensitive to transplant. As well as other types prefers fertile soils, loose, moist enough, acidic or slightly acidic, avoiding lime. In dry summers, it is necessary to frequently and abundantly water and spray the plants.

 

USDA Hardiness Zone (°F): 4 (-30 to -20 °F)