Sheep Laurel

Common name: Sheep Laurel (Lambkill)

Scientific name: Kalmia angustifolia

Dimensions:
    Flower: 3/8-1/2" (8-13 mm) wide
    Plant height: 1-3' (30-90 cm)

Blooming period: May-July

Habitat: Old fields, bogs, woods, swamps, moist acidic soils

Description: Small, crimson-pink pentagon- or saucer-shaped flowers clustered around the stem, most below the leaves; 5 petals; 10 stamens. Evergreen leaves 1½-2" (4-5 cm) long, oblong, in whorls of 3; lower leaves usually drooping; newer upper leaves upright. Leaves not shiny, paler on underside. Name "Lambkill" comes from foliage being poisonous to livestock. Heath family. (July 6)