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Mountain Laurel

Mountain Laurel Blur

Mountain Laurels

Kalmia latifolia

Commonly called Mountain Laurel or Spoonwood; but also known as Ivybush, Calico Bush, Sheep Laurel, Lambkill & Clamoun. They are not, however, related to Bay Laurel. 

These blooms were photographed in the spring at Pilot Mountain in North Carolina on one of our rock climbing trips. The top photo came out strange, but both were shot under the exact same settings & conditions. 

This flowering plant can be found all over, and is native to, the eastern United States from Maine to Florida. The plant is generally a shrub, but in areas on North Carolina it can become a tree. They often grow in huge clusters, covering parts of the woods. They like fairly rough terrain- rocky areas on hillsides and mountains. The ones I captured above were all growing in 80% or so shade. 

The flowers themselves are really attractive and the entire plant is an evergreen – making them popular for many gardeners. However, all parts of the plant are poisonous due to the presence of andromedotoxin and arbutin. It is especially dangerous for several mammals include goats, horses, deer, sheep and cattle. It causes gastrointestinal distress and hemorrhages leading to a while array of nasty symptoms.