Pink Charm opens red buds into clear rich pink flowers, a straightforward strong pink without the banding the patterned selections carry. This selection of the native Kalmia latifolia grows 8 to 10 feet tall and wide in part shade, hardy from Zone 4 through Zone 8.
Bloom comes in late spring in large clusters at the branch tips, and the crimped geometric buds are as good to look at as the open cups.
The foliage is glossy dark green and evergreen, holding a shade planting through winter when the deciduous shrubs around it have dropped.
Zone 4 hardiness puts this further north than most mountain laurels will grow. It wants acidic, moist, well-drained soil and struggles in heavy clay or alkaline ground. Mulch matters, since the roots sit shallow. Deer leave it alone.
Size at Maturity
Height 8'- 10' Spread 8'- 10'
Growing Zone
USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8
Lowest Temperatures -30°F to -20°F
Light Requirements
Part shade - 4 to 6 hours of direct sun per day, mostly before midday
Wildlife Benefits
Native Range
AL, CT, DC, DE, FL, GA, IN, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, OH, PA, RI, SC, TN, VA, VT, WV