Redroot Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra
ABOUT
Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra, commonly known as red sheep laurel, presents a striking appearance with its distinctive floral and foliage characteristics. The plant is adorned with clusters of small, deep pink to red flowers, each shaped like a delicate cup or bowl. These blooms possess a charming beauty, with their intricate patterns and symmetrical form creating an alluring display during their flowering season. The foliage of red sheep laurel consists of narrow, glossy leaves that maintain a vibrant, dark green coloration throughout the year. These leaves are lance-shaped and arranged in a spiraling pattern along the stems, contributing to the plant's dense and textured appearance. The plant's overall form is that of a compact, well-branched shrub that can contribute significantly to the aesthetic of any landscape where it is situated. As a cultivated form of the species, red sheep laurel has been selected for its unique and appealing flower coloration, which distinguishes it from the more common pink shades found in its species counterparts. The effect of the red flowers against the green backdrop of the leaves is particularly striking, providing a bold contrast that can catch the eye and add a splash of intense color to gardens or natural settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ericaceae
Synonyms
Red Sheep Laurel, Red Lambkill, Red Dwarf Laurel
Common names
Kalmia angustifolia var. rubra, Kalmia angustifolia var. caroliniana, Kalmia angustifolia forma rubra.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant in question, known commonly as the Sheep Laurel, is toxic to humans. The entire plant, including leaves, stems, and flowers, contains andromedotoxins which can cause poisoning when ingested. Symptoms of Sheep Laurel poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, weakness, headaches, and in severe cases, slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, and possibly death. It is important for individuals to recognize and avoid consuming any part of this plant to prevent toxic effects.
To pets
Sheep Laurel is also toxic to pets. Similar to its effects on humans, andromedotoxins found in all parts of the plant can lead to poisoning in animals such as dogs and cats. Ingestion may result in symptoms like salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potentially life-threatening cardiac abnormalities. Pet owners should be vigilant in preventing their animals from consuming any part of the Sheep Laurel to avoid these serious health risks.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Spread
2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
2-6
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra, also known as Red Sheep Laurel, has red flowers that provide visual interest and enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The plant offers nectar to pollinators like bees and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: The shrub's root system helps stabilize soil and control erosion on slopes and banks.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, Red Sheep Laurel is quite drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering and thus conserving water resources.
- Cold Hardy: It is resistant to cold temperatures and can thrive in colder climates where other plants might not survive.
- Low Maintenance: It requires minimal pruning and care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Evergreen: Being an evergreen plant, it provides year-round color and interest in the garden, even in the winter months when other plants may be dormant.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The leaves of Kalmia angustifolia, commonly known as sheep laurel, can be used to create green dyes for textiles.
- Tannin Source: The bark of sheep laurel contains tannins that can be used for tanning leather.
- Microscope Slide Preparation: The plant's thin leaves can be used in preparing microscope slides for educational or botanical studies, as they are good for showing cellular structures.
- Floral Arrangements: The bright pink flowers of sheep laurel can be used as part of floral arrangements, particularly for spring-themed decorations.
- Garden Borders: Sheep laurel's compact growth habit makes it suitable for use as a low, evergreen border plant in landscaping.
- Photography Subject: Due to its striking flowers, sheep laurel is an attractive subject for nature photographers and plant enthusiasts.
- Insect Repellent: Some gardeners use sheep laurel as a companion plant, believing its presence may help deter certain insects from more desirable plants.
- Wildlife Habitat: The dense foliage of sheep laurel provides shelter for small wildlife, including birds, beneficial insects, and small mammals.
- Craft Material: Dried branches and flowers of sheep laurel can be used in the creation of rustic wreaths and other craft items.
- Educational Tool: Sheep laurel can be included in educational gardens or programs to teach about native plants and their ecological roles.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sheep Laurel is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sheep Laurel is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra, commonly known as the Red Sheep Laurel, often grows in challenging conditions, symbolizing the ability to endure and thrive despite hardships.
- Protection: As the Red Sheep Laurel is toxic to some animals, it symbolizes protection and the setting of boundaries.
- Beauty and Grace: With its attractive red flowers, the plant represents beauty and the subtle yet powerful grace of nature.
WaterFor the Sheep Laurel, which is the common name of Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra, watering should be done thoroughly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It's crucial to water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 gallon for smaller plants and up to 2-3 gallons for larger shrubs. During dry spells or hot weather, you may need to water twice a week. Ensure that the water penetrates the soil to reach the roots rather than just wetting the surface. If the plant is in a container, water until it runs out of the bottom of the pot and check the soil moisture every few days to determine if more water is needed.
LightThe Sheep Laurel prefers partial shade to full sun, thriving best in spots that receive morning sunlight and afternoon shade. It is important to protect the plant from intense, direct midday sunlight which can scorch the leaves. Ideal lighting conditions involve dappled sunlight under the canopy of taller trees or in a location that gets bright but indirect light throughout the day.
TemperatureThe Sheep Laurel is hardy and can withstand cold temperatures down to about -20°F and is comfortable in typical outdoor conditions where winter temperatures do not usually fall below 0°F. Ideally, it prefers a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F during the growing season. It is essential not to expose it to extreme heat as that can stress the plant, particularly if it goes above 80°F.
PruningPruning the Sheep Laurel is mainly done to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged wood. It should be pruned immediately after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's buds. Generally, this plant will only need light pruning once a year. Selective removal of branches can enhance airflow and light penetration, which is beneficial for the plant’s overall health. The ideal time for pruning is late spring to early summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSheep laurel, commonly known as Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra, thrives in acidic, well-draining soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. A mix of peat, pine bark, and perlite or sand is often recommended to provide the right conditions for root health and growth.
RepottingSheep laurel does not need frequent repotting; it should be done every 3-4 years or when the plant outgrows its current container, ensuring minimal root disturbance during the process.
Humidity & MistingSheep laurel prefers moderate to high humidity levels, with optimal conditions ranging from 50% to 60%, avoiding overly dry air which may harm the plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use acidic soil, provide bright, indirect light, and ensure high humidity.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, acidic soil, ensure good drainage, protect from wind.
Hardiness zone
2-6 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra, commonly known as the red sheep laurel, begins with seed germination, which requires exposure to cold temperatures for stratification, simulating winter conditions to break dormancy. The seeds grow into seedlings, benefiting from partial sunlight and acidic, well-drained soils. As the plant matures, it develops woody stems and evergreen leaves, with its growth slow but steady, eventually reaching up to 3 feet in height. In late spring to early summer, the red sheep laurel produces clusters of ornate, pink to deep red flowers, which are pollinated by insects, leading to the development of fruit capsules that release seeds when mature. The plant can also propagate vegetatively via rhizomes, spreading to form colonies. Throughout its life, the red sheep laurel will require consistent moisture and may live for many years, given favorable conditions and protection from pests and diseases.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Sheep Laurel, Kalmia angustifolia f. rubra, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings are taken from the current year's growth when the stems have partially matured but are not yet fully hardened, typically in late summer or early fall. A 4 to 6 inch cutting is snipped just below a leaf node, then the lower leaves are removed. The cut end is dipped in rooting hormone to enhance root development and then the cutting is placed in a well-draining rooting medium such as a mix of peat and perlite. The cutting should be kept in a humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture until roots have developed, which typically takes several weeks to a few months. After rooting, the young plants can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before planting in their permanent locations.
