Southern Sheepkill Kalmia angustifolia var. carolina

Sheep Laurel is a small, compact, tufted, evergreen, perennial shrub in the heath family, native to the southeastern United States and typically found in moist pine lands, swamps, and occasionally rocky areas at a high elevation. This plant can also be found in North Carolina where it is common in the coastal plain, but rare in the mountains and the piedmont. Leaves are simple, opposite or in whorls of 3. Flowers are pinkish, blossom from spring into summer in short lateral clusters, and are each saucer-shaped with 5 shallow lobes, the 10 anthers at first stuck in small pockets;. Fruit is a capsule.

Sheep Laurel prefers moist to wet sandy soil in full sun, but tolerates partial shade. It is a relatively small shrub, reaching a mature height of 6 feet with a 3 foot spread. It spreads by sucker growths at the base and plants can be propagated by seed or by pulling old plants apart in spring. In the wild, it can appear in extensive colonies. The plant can be pruned, but keep in mind that next year's blossoms and fruit will appear on old growth.

Fire Risk: This plant has a high flammability rating and should not be planted within the defensible space of your home. Select plants with a low flammability rating for the sites nearest your home. 

Diseases, Insect Pests, and Other Plant Problems:

No known diseases or insect pests.

More information on Kalmia angustifolia.