Sheep Laurel, Small Laurel

kalmia angustifolia

Also known as: ["Sheep Laurel","Small Laurel","Few-leaved Laurel"]

Family: Ericaceae Genus: Kalmia Category: Shrubs

Overview

A small evergreen shrub native to eastern North America, known for its clusters of pinkish-red flowers and toxic foliage.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ericales
Family: Ericaceae
Genus: Kalmia
Botanical Name: Kalmia angustifolia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: woodland garden, shrub border, or container in partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–29 to 35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Acidic, sandy loam with organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun); protect from harsh afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; avoid sudden exposure to intense light; place in dappled shade during peak summer.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (chlorosis) or stunted growth often indicate incorrect soil pH or poor drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Morning sun is ideal; provide shade in afternoon; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

acidic, well-drained, sandy loam with high organic matter

pH: Acidic (pH 4.5–6.0).

Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; avoid lime-based amendments.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; prefers cool temperatures (50–70°F); tolerates cold but dislikes extreme heat.

Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer

Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; apply before new growth emerges.

Propagation

Methods

Softwood cuttings in early summer; layering can also be successful.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Early summer when new growth is flexible but mature enough to root.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); indirect light.

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, plastic bags or propagator, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use sharp, clean tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged wood; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.

Method

Use acidic, well-draining soil; gently tease out circling roots; place in a pot with drainage holes.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; avoid frequent repotting as it prefers being slightly root-bound.

Checklist

Choose appropriate soil; prepare new pot; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base, allowing moisture to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess drains away; water early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add peat moss, pine bark, or compost to enhance acidity and drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, or browning edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; roots can freeze in poorly insulated pots.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease; soil dries out rapidly.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop feeding in late summer/autumn.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Kalmia angustifolia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly iron chlorosis, or stress from environmental factors such as waterlogging or poor drainage.

Wilting in Kalmia angustifolia is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage from overwatering or root rot.

Leaf spots on Kalmia angustifolia may be caused by fungal pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Kalmia angustifolia if the soil is poorly drained or excessively moist, leading to decay of the root system and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly sensitive to the grayanotoxins present in Kalmia angustifolia. Ingestion can result in severe poisoning, affecting the heart, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to fatal outcomes.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness abdominal pain slow heart rate difficulty breathing tremors seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Ensure cats cannot access the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek emergency veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The grayanotoxins in Kalmia angustifolia are highly toxic to dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal, cardiac, and neurological disturbances. Even small amounts can lead to significant health issues.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy weakness abdominal pain slow heart rate difficulty breathing collapse
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Kalmia angustifolia contains grayanotoxins, which disrupt sodium channels in cell membranes, leading to cardiovascular and neuromuscular effects. Ingestion can cause severe poisoning, affecting the heart, nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness weakness slow heart rate low blood pressure difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers stems roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep out of reach of children and avoid ingestion. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek immediate medical attention.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Kalmia angustifolia toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: What are the common problems with this plant?

A: Common issues include leaf spots and wilting.

Quick Reference
Family: Ericaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Marsh Labrador Tea
View
Heath-like Erica
View
Pinedrop
View
Dwarf Rhododendron
View