Overview
Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' is a bushy shrubs in the genus Kalmia, part of the Ericaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens, low maintenance, flower borders and beds and hedging and screens.
About
Kalmia latifolia, the mountain laurel, calico-bush, or spoonwood, is a flowering plant and one of the 10 species in the genus of Kalmia belonging to the heath(er) family Ericaceae. It is native to the eastern United States.
About the genus
Kalmia is a genus of about ten species of evergreen shrubs from 0.2–5 m tall, in the family Ericaceae (heath). They are native to North America and Cuba. They grow in acidic soils, with different species in wet acid bog habitats and dry, sandy soils.
Wikipedia contributors, "Kalmia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Kalmia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Kalmia
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, East-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Low Maintenance, Flower borders and beds, Hedging and screens
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich'
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs, Vine weevil
- Disease resistance
- Honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich'?
Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' prefers partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' need?
Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' hardy in the UK?
Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich' has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Kalmia latifolia 'Goodrich'?
Semi-ripe cuttings in midsummer.
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