Kalmia latifolia (mountain laurel, calico-bush, spoonwood)

Bears showy clusters of 3/4″ diameter white or pinkish tinted flowers in the late spring. An outstandingly beautiful shrub when in flower and pleasing in other seasons with its glossy evergreen foliage and picturesque form. An elegant species, with graceful, arching limbs, forms an attractive hedge, also more unusual than common hedge shrubs and plants.

Slow growing and very long-lived, but begins blossoming when quite small. Prefers acidic, sandy, or loamy soil. Mountain laurel will grow well in full sun or partial shade. Mulching is very beneficial for the plant.