Kalmia latifolia 'Elf'
Elf Mountain-laurel

 Family:
 Genus:
 Plant Type:
 Growth Forms:
 Hardiness:
 Deciduous / Evergreen:
 Flower Notes:
Pink;white (Spring; interesting pink flower buds open to white flowers in terminal flower clusters (corymbs))
 Foliage Notes:
Green (Leathery and yellowish beneath)
 Fruit Notes:
Brown (5-valved capsule; not ornamentally important)
 Ultimate Height:
2-3 feet
 Ultimate Spread:
2-4 feet
 Light Requirements:
 Soil Notes:
Prefers rich, acidic, well drained soil with a layer of mulch on top to keep roots cool
 Range:
Cultivated origin
 Diagnostic Characteristics:
Leaves are 2" long, dark-green above and yellowish below. Buds have two scales. No terminal bud as in Rhododendrons. Flowers are up to 3/4" across and bloom in May.
  Special Characteristics:
  • Flowering Characteristics 358
  • Border 367
  • Mass Plantings 268
  • Naturalizing 101
  • Specimen 598
  • Slow Growth Rate 266

    • Additional Information

    The Elf Mountain-laurel is a dwarf broadleaf evergreen shrub with an abundance of interesting flower buds and stunning flowers. Site and exposure requirements similar to Rhododendron, that is, acidic, well drained soil and at least light protection from afternoon sun in winter for best results. Mulch to keep roots cool. Hardiness varies widely with geographic source of genetic material. Does not tolerate extremely dry conditions. Flowering is reduced by shade, but deadheading enhances flowering for the following summer. Foliage toxic to livestock. Leafspot can be problem.

    Other plants like this Kalmia latifolia 'Elf' (Elf Mountain-laurel)

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