Northern Sheep Laurel (Kalmia angustifolia)
Such a pretty plant! Northern Sheep Laurel is the host plant to the Brown Elfin and 32 other species of butterflies and moths in the area (nwf.org). If this plant is in an optimal environment, it may spread moderately by rhizomes to form a dense ground cover. Full sun to partial shade is preferred for prolific flowering. Sheep Laurel will grow in a wide variety of soil types but does best in more acidic soils. Take care because the foliage of Sheep Laurel is poisonous to livestock.
Photo credit: Yewchan
Life Cycle: Perennial
Sun Exposure: Full, Partial sun
Soil Moisture: Wet, Medium-Wet, Medium
Height: 1-3 feet
Plant Spacing: 3-6 feet
Bloom Time: June-July
Bloom Color: Pink
Advantages: Caterpillar Favorite, Deer Resistant
Host Plant: Brown Elfin and 32 other species of butterflies and moths use this as a caterpillar host plant in our area (nwf.org)
Complementary Plants: Labrador Tea, Azaleas, and High and Low bush blueberries.
