Sarah Mountain Laurel

Sarah Mountain Laurel, or Kalmia latifolia Sarah, is an evergreen plant with glossy, leathery, oval leaves that are deep green on the surface, and yellow-ish-green underneath. Standing at a height of 8 to 10 feet, with a spread of 6 to 8 feet, the Sarah blooms in late spring, with large, flamboyant clusters of bubblegum-pink starburst buds that burst open into light-pink chalice-shaped blooms with contrasting white stamens, and ten star-like points. These 1-inch colored flowers stand out beautifully against the vivid green foliage. Sarah Mountain Laurel, introduced by Richard Jaynes, is native to eastern North America, and has an upright, mounding, compact growing habit. This slow grower is cold and shade tolerant to zero degrees. Its deer and critter resistant, as well as resistant to leaf spot and other common plant diseases. It can tolerate more sun than other similar cultivars, and attracts butterflies and other pollinators. Sarah Mountain Laurel Care Sarah Mountain Laurel should be planted in the spring after the danger of frost has passed. Plant your Mountain Laurel in acidic, humus-rich soil. It does not grow well in clay. It prefers full to partial shade and needs protection from winter sun and winds, which can cause dehydration. Your Sarah Mountain Laurel should be watered regularly and kept in moist soil. Prune your laurel in the late spring, immediately after it flowers, but only to maintain the shape you desire. It is otherwise low-maintenance. Cut branches to just above a set of leaves to encourage fresh growth. Sarah Mountain Laurel Spacing Sarah Mountain Laurel should be spaced at least 4 to 6 feet apart from center to center. It makes an elegant foundation option, and it pairs beautifully with rhododendrons and azaleas. They are fantastic for a pop of vivid color in any rustic or woodland garden. keeps it bright and lively. They work well in pots and containers, so long as they have good drainage.