What plant species is known as Mountain Laurel?

Mountain Laurel is the common name for Kalmia latifolia. This evergreen shrub is native to the eastern United States and is particularly well-known for its beautiful, showy flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are typically pink, white, or lavender and are arranged in clusters, making them quite striking in ornamental settings.

Kalmia latifolia thrives in acidic soil and prefers partly shady locations, which is often characteristic of the habitats it naturally occurs in, such as woodland or mountain environments. Its ability to adapt to various conditions, along with its attractive foliage and flowers, makes it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping in North Carolina and beyond.

The other options represent different plant species: Kerria japonica is known for its bright yellow flowers, Leucothoe fontanesiana is a shrub with arching branches and white flowers, and Ligustrum japonicum is a type of privet with glossy leaves. None of these are associated with the common name Mountain Laurel.