Elf Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia, commonly called mountain laurel, is a multi-stemmed, broadleaf, evergreen shrub that is native to Eastern North America (New England south to the Florida panhandle). It is found in a variety of habitats, including open rocky areas, sandy woods, cool meadows, mountain slopes and woodland margins.
‘Elf’ is a dwarf variety that typically grows 2-3′ tall and just as wide. Dainty light pink buds open to crisp white, intricate, cup shaped flowers in late May to early June. You will find three of these beauties at the edge of the main lawn in the Rhododendron Garden.
Thank you to Denise Rubenstein. Check out her What’s Bloomin’ display on the kiosk in the Rhododendron Garden for other current finds in the park.