Sheep Laurel
Kalmia angustifolia
Also known as Lambkill, Lambskill, Sheepkill
Climate Match for your location
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A compact evergreen shrub with narrow, leathery leaves and delicate pink to red flowers in early summer. It thrives in acidic soils and makes an excellent addition to woodland gardens and naturalized landscapes.
Why grow it
Sheep laurel is notably more compact than related Kalmia species, making it useful where space is limited or where a lower profile is desired in acidic landscape settings. Its early summer bloom and evergreen foliage provide reliable structure in woodland understories and naturalized areas. It tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soils better than many ornamental shrubs, reducing amendment requirements.
Watch out for
This species prefers consistent moisture during establishment and can struggle in very dry conditions once planted. In warmer or drier regions, afternoon shade and mulching help maintain soil moisture and prevent foliage stress. Deer browsing can be heavy in some areas, so consider protection in landscapes with high deer pressure.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ericaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Eastern North America
Native to: Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, West Virginia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A compact evergreen shrub with narrow, leathery leaves and delicate pink to red flowers in early summer. It thrives in acidic soils and makes an excellent addition to woodland gardens and naturalized landscapes.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Sheep Laurel grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Sheep laurel is notably more compact than related Kalmia species, making it useful where space is limited or where a lower profile is desired in acidic landscape settings. Its early summer bloom and evergreen foliage provide reliable structure in woodland understories and naturalized areas. It tolerates poor, sandy, or rocky soils better than many ornamental shrubs, reducing amendment requirements.
Watch out for
This species prefers consistent moisture during establishment and can struggle in very dry conditions once planted. In warmer or drier regions, afternoon shade and mulching help maintain soil moisture and prevent foliage stress. Deer browsing can be heavy in some areas, so consider protection in landscapes with high deer pressure.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Ericaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Eastern North America
Native to: Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, West Virginia
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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