Sandmyrtle Kalmia buxifolia
ABOUT
Kalmia buxifolia, commonly known as the sand myrtle, is a compact evergreen shrub that boasts glossy green leaves arranged in dense, whorled patterns. The leaves, which are reminiscent of boxwood, are small and oval-shaped with a leathery texture. During the blooming season, the plant is adorned with clusters of small, delicate flowers. These blossoms are typically white, though they can exhibit shades of pink, and they are shaped like small cups or bells with intricate patterns inside, often creating a delightful visual contrast against the dark green foliage. The sand myrtle's overall appearance lends it a fine-textured, lush aspect that is well-suited to ornamental use in a garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Ericaceae
Synonyms
Sand Myrtle, Sandmyrtle, Dwarf Mountain Laurel
Common names
Kalmia buxifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Sandmyrtle is known to be toxic to humans if ingested. All parts of the plant contain toxins, including grayanotoxins, which can affect the human body. Symptoms of sandmyrtle poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, weakness, and cardiac symptoms such as low blood pressure and irregular heartbeats. Severe cases of poisoning can lead to more critical consequences, including respiratory problems and potential death. It is essential for individuals to avoid consuming any part of this plant and to seek medical attention immediately if ingestion is suspected.
To pets
Sandmyrtle is also toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. Similar to its effects on humans, all parts of the plant contain toxins that can cause health issues for pets. The symptoms of poisoning in pets may include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potential cardiac abnormalities such as arrhythmias. In severe cases, ingestion of sandmyrtle can lead to coma or death. Pet owners need to keep their animals away from this plant and contact a veterinarian immediately if they suspect their pet has ingested any part of the sandmyrtle.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Southeastern United States
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Kalmia buxifolia, commonly known as sand myrtle, is valued for its attractive, glossy evergreen foliage and clusters of small white flowers, which enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Habitat Support: Sand myrtle provides habitat and food for native insects and animals, contributing to local biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: The plant's dense growth habit and shallow root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion in sloped or disturbed areas.
- Low Maintenance: Sand myrtle is a low-maintenance plant that is well-suited for gardeners looking for plants that require minimal care once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, sand myrtle can tolerate periods of drought, making it suitable for xeriscaping in drier climates.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant can grow in various light conditions, including partial shade, making it versatile for planting in different locations within a landscape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Shrub Borders: Kalmia buxifolia can be used to create dense shrub borders in landscaping, offering a consistent green backdrop throughout the year.
- Foliage for Floral Arrangements: The glossy evergreen leaves of Kalmia buxifolia can add texture and fullness to cut floral arrangements.
- Dwarf Hedge: Due to its compact growth habit, it can serve as a low, evergreen hedge in small gardens or walkways.
- Rock Gardens: Its tolerance for rocky, well-drained soil makes it suitable for rock garden compositions.
- Slopes and Banks: Kalmia buxifolia can be planted on slopes to help control soil erosion due to its dense root system.
- Foundation Planting: Its small size makes it suitable for planting around foundations without risking damage to structures.
- Wildlife Garden: The shrub provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and small animals in wildlife-friendly gardens.
- Ground Cover: Because of its low-lying nature, can be used as ground cover to suppress weeds and limit soil exposure.
- Container Gardening: Kalmia buxifolia's compact size makes it suitable for growing in pots, adding evergreen interest to patios and balconies.
- Bonsai: With proper pruning and care, it can be trained into a bonsai, showcasing its miniature scenery.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sandmyrtle is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sandmyrtle is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Kalmia buxifolia, commonly known as "Sandmyrtle," is often associated with protection due to its evergreen nature that remains vibrant all year round, symbolizing a constant shield.
- Beauty: The delicate flowers of the Sandmyrtle can symbolize beauty, hinting at the appreciation of natural aesthetics which can be fleeting and delicate.
- Tranquility: Sandmyrtle's preference for serene forest settings conveys a sense of tranquility and peace, making it a symbol for calmness and relaxation.
- Resilience: As it can grow in rocky and challenging environments, Sandmyrtle represents resilience and the ability to thrive in tough conditions.
WaterThe Sandmyrtle should be watered deeply, allowing the soil to become slightly dry between waterings. This typically means providing 1 to 1.5 gallons of water per week, depending on climate and soil conditions. During the growing season, in spring and summer, water requirements may increase, and the plant may need watering twice a week. However, in winter, reduce watering to once every two weeks, ensuring the plant doesn't sit in waterlogged soil. Always check the top couple of inches of soil for dryness before watering.
LightThe Sandmyrtle thrives in conditions that offer full sun to partial shade. The best spot for this plant would be an area that receives morning sunlight and afternoon shade, or dappled light throughout the day. Avoid placing it in deep shade or in locations where the intense afternoon sun could scorch the leaves.
TemperatureThe Sandmyrtle prefers moderate temperatures and can survive in a range between 10°F to 90°F, but it grows best when temperatures remain between 60°F and 80°F. This evergreen shrub is hardy and can withstand a light frost, but prolonged temperatures below 10°F may harm the plant.
PruningPrune the Sandmyrtle to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. It’s best pruned immediately after flowering, which generally occurs in late spring or early summer. Pruning at this time allows the plant to set buds for the next year. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back excessive growth annually.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Sandmyrtle (the common name for Kalmia buxifolia) consists of a well-draining acidic mix with a pH of 4.5 to 5.5. A combination of peat moss, garden soil, and coarse sand or perlite can provide the aeration and drainage this plant prefers. The soil should also contain organic matter to maintain moisture and nutrient levels.
RepottingSandmyrtles (Kalmia buxifolia) are slow-growing plants and typically need repotting every 2 to 3 years. It’s best to repot them in the spring, just before they enter their active growing season. Ensure the new container is only slightly larger than the previous one to avoid water retention issues.
Humidity & MistingSandmyrtles (Kalmia buxifolia) prefer moderate to high humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70%. They thrive best in an environment that mimics their native humid woodland habitat, away from dry air drafts and heating or cooling vents.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Sandmyrtle in bright, indirect light with humid conditions.
Outdoor
Plant Sandmyrtle in dappled sunlight with moist acidic soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleKalmia buxifolia, commonly known as sand myrtle, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in well-drained, sandy or rocky soil, often in the presence of acidic conditions. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops into a young plant with a deep taproot and a rosette of evergreen leaves. As the sand myrtle matures, it forms a woody stem and can reach up to 2 feet in height, although it remains a low, shrubby plant. During its mature stage, it produces clusters of small, pink to white flowers in the spring which are pollinated by insects, leading to the development of dry, capsule-like fruits that disperse seeds for the next generation. In its native habitat, sand myrtle can live for several years, enduring through the seasons with a period of dormancy in the winter when growth slows down. Over time, the plant can spread to form small colonies through clonal growth from its root system, as well as by seed dispersal.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Kalmia buxifolia, commonly known as the Sand Myrtle, is best propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings. The ideal time to take these cuttings is in the late summer when the new growth has begun to mature. To propagate, select a healthy, disease-free branch and cut a piece that is 4 to 6 inches long, ensuring there are at least two to three sets of leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root development. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture, water it sufficiently, and keep it in a warm location with indirect sunlight. Maintain consistent moisture while avoiding waterlogged conditions, and with proper care the cutting should root in several weeks, providing successful propagation of the Sand Myrtle.
