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Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra
  • RHS AGM

red sheep laurel

A suckering evergreen shrub forming a mound of erect stems with narrow leaves and clusters of deep red bowl-shaped flowers in early summer

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1–1.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Red Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Partial shade
Aspect

South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Ericaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Suckering
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus

Kalmia are evergreen shrubs with simple, leathery leaves and racemes or corymbs of bowl-shaped flowers in spring or summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
E. North America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist but well-drained acidic soil in partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Pruning group 8

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs and vine weevil

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility

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