One of our best loved native shrubs, mountain laurel is a hardy broadleaf evergreen that blooms in late spring. 'Pink Charm' has dark red-pink buds that open to rich pink flowers with a narrow dark pink band inside the flower near the base. It sets flower buds well, even at a young age. Spring flowers attract hummingbirds.
Large showy flower clusters
Lustrous evergreen foliage
Nectar source for pollinators
Host plant for Laurel sphinx moth
Spring flowers attract butterflies
Year round protective cover for wildlife
Rocky woods and cliffs; southeastern Maine to southern Ohio, south to southeastern Louisiana and western Florida.
Mountain laurel has unique cupped flowers with each stamen held under tension in a tiny dent in the petal. When the stamens are brushed by a bee or other pollinator, they spring up and coat the insect with pollen which he carries with him to the next flower.
Plant in light shade with some sun for best flowering and best flower color development, especially with pink and red flowered cultivars. Generally prefers well-drained, acid soil and will withstand drought. Does not tolerate heavy soils or poor drainage. Plant in raised beds if your soil does not drain well. Protection from winter sun and wind may be beneficial in northern climates to keep the foliage looking good through winter.