Calmia broadleaf(Kalmia latifolia) is an evergreen shrub resembling rhododendron. It belongs to the heather family (Ericaceae), thereforethe growing requirements of Kalmiaare similar to that of azaleas and rhododendrons. Calmia broad-leaved comes from North America, where it is considered one of the most beautiful heather plants. It is still not very popular in Poland, but it is certainly worth planting in the garden as an unusual addition to flowerbeds and heaths. See whatbroad-leaved kalmia cultivation looks likeand learn aboutgarden kalmiavarieties that are worth planting in a discount.
Calmia broad-leaved
Fig. By Nicholas A. Tonelli, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Broad-leaved kalmia - description
Calmia broad-leaved is a deciduous, evergreen shrubwith a compact habit. In Poland, it reaches a maximum height of 3 m. The leaves are dark green and shiny, similar to rhododendron leaves, but more pointed.
The decorative value of kalmia are the flowers , blooming on the bush in May and June. They have a characteristic structure, not found in other plant species. They consist of 5 petals fused together, forming the shape of tiny umbrellas. Flower petals come in shades of pink and red, often with a distinct pattern. The color of the petals in a bud is usually different than when the flowers develop. The flowers are about 2-2.5 cm in diameter and gathered in corymbose at the tops of the shoots. They are glandularly hairy and sticky. The fruit is small and spherical, with a dried-on pistil at the top. Kalmyk fruits are inedible
Warning!All parts of the broadleaf squid are poisonous. They contain toxins, incl. andromedotoxin, erikolin, rhododendrol, arbutin and florizin, which are poisonous to humans and cattle but, interestingly, completely harmless to cats and dogs. Toxins are also found in the pollen of kalmia, so it cannot be grown near apiaries from which honey is obtained!
Growing broadleaf squid
Calmia broad-leaved, like other heather plants, has high requirements for soil and position.Calmia shrubs grow well and bloom profusely in the sun , but they feel much better in slightly shaded positions, under the canopy of tall trees.The stand of kalmia cultivationis important especially in winter, when the leaves may dry out in sunny and frosty weather.If we grow kalmia in a sunny place, it should be slightly shaded in winter Shrubs should be grown in places sheltered from winds.
Kalmia should be planted in acidic soil(pH 4.0-5.5), peaty, moist, humus-rich and low in calcium. Since kalmia forms a shallow and dense root system made of thin roots, the soil around the shrub should be mulched to protect the root system from drying out. Composted pine bark is the best mulch.
Althoughkalmia is characterized by high resistance to low temperatures , in eastern and central Poland it requires covering for the winter. It is especially important to protect the shallow root system, which is very susceptible to freezing.
Calmia broadleaf 'Elf'
Fig. pixabay.com
To fertilize kalmiawe use fertilizers for rhododendrons, but in reduced proportions. This plant is very sensitive to soil salinity.
In order for the bushes to flourish better, after flowering, we cangently trim the shoots of the kalmia, while removing thefading inflorescences. This treatment will improve the appearance of the plant, but it is not necessary.
Broad-leaved kalmia can be grownin gardens, planting it next to rhododendrons, in the company of conifers and in flower beds.
Varieties of broadleaf squid
There are about 30 varieties of broadleaf squidin cultivation, which differ in color of flowers and growth force. Their number is gradually increasing.Calmia varieties are especially valuablewith uniformly white or dark petals.miniature kalmia varieties
The most popular varieties of broadleaf squidare shown in the table. Below the table you will find a link to download the list of kalmia varieties in a printable version.
Download a printable version of the broadleaf squid varieties:
- Varieties of broad-leaved squid (PDF)
MSc Eng. Agnieszka Lach
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