Bog Laurel (Kalmia Polifolia) is a perennial shrub in the Ericaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires high watering and partial shade or full shade light in USDA hardiness zones 2-6. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Kalmia polifolia is a low, evergreen shrub native to northeastern North America, typically found in cold acidic bogs. It has glossy, leathery, dark blue-green foliage and bright pink to purple flowers.

Bog Laurel

Bog Laurel

Kalmia Polifolia

Kalmia polifolia is a low, evergreen shrub native to northeastern North America, typically found in cold acidic bogs. It has glossy, leathery, dark blue-green foliage and bright pink to purple flowers.

Quick Facts

Type
shrub
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
High
Light
Partial Shade, Full Shade
Hardiness Zones
2-6

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
☠️
Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:peaty, sandy, loamy
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, ornamental

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Bog Laurel

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Bog Laurel
Bog Laurel detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Ericaceae
Genus:Kalmia