The Olympic Fire is bred to bring showy clusters of multi-stemmed blooms. Also known as Mountain Laurel, this flowering bush has dark green foliage and is heat, drought and pest-resistant. Perfected for the more woodsy areas as it can tolerate rabbits and deer. The variegated flower clusters make great specimens for cut arrangements. This Kalmia shrub reaches heights and widths of four to six feet and the terminal blooms can reach five inches across. Removal of the flowers after the peak of bloom promotes further color. This shrub prefers moist, well-drained soil and part shade. Add peat moss and organic matter to the bed to promote even more rapid growth. For zones 4 to 8.

Kalmia
Mountain Laurel

Planting:

Set out plants in a well-drained, acid, highly organic soil that is cool and retains abundant moisture, spacing to allow for ultimate growth. Kalmia flowers best in light shade to full sun (so long as ample moisture is available), but is essentially a woodland plant requiring shade in the southern portion of its range.

Maintenance:

Kalmia are surface-rooting, so do not allow them to dry out, especially when newly planted. Water during dry periods, and apply a mulch to conserve moisture. Should the leaves become yellow or spotted with yellow, kalmia is likely suffering from chlorosis, a common condition where the soil is lacking in soluble iron.

Addition of sulphur or aluminum sulfate will reduce the soil pH, and free additional iron to become available to the plant. Prune after flowering as necessary to shape.

Zones:

Zones 4-8

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Since its founding in 1920, Wayside Gardens has brought the rarest and highest-quality plants to the garden market. Wayside was founded in 1920 by two acclaimed growers who came together to pursue their shared vision of marketing all high-end plants for the serious garden enthusiast. Originally located in Mentor, Ohio, Wayside Gardens swiftly grew a reputation for the highest-quality plants and the most sophisticated clientele. In 1975, Wayside was purchased by the Park Seed Company, and moved to Hodges, SC.  The company has flourished since then, growing to become an undisputed leader in rare and unique plant growing.

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