Bull's Eye Mountain Laurel

Bull's Eye Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Bull's Eye')

Bull's Eye Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Bull's Eye') is a striking evergreen shrub known for its unique, eye-catching blooms. A standout selection of the native Eastern Mountain Laurel, this cultivar is prized for its dense, dark green foliage and dramatic flower clusters that emerge in late spring. Its refined form and floral display make it an ideal ornamental shrub for shaded gardens or naturalistic plantings.

Distinctive Features

'Bull's Eye' features domed clusters of deep pink buds that open into white flowers, each with a bold maroon ring�giving the appearance of a target or "bull's eye." The evergreen foliage is leathery, glossy, and dark green, providing year-round interest. The plant maintains a dense, rounded habit, typically maturing at 5 to 8 feet tall and wide, with excellent structure and floral consistency.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; tolerates some morning sun
• Soil: Acidic, moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter
• Water: Moderate; keep consistently moist, especially in dry periods
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold blooms and glossy foliage create high visual impact in shaded areas
• Woodland Gardens: Perfect for naturalized settings and underplanting in dappled shade
• Foundation Planting: Evergreen form provides year-round structure near homes or buildings
• Mixed Shrub Borders: Pairs well with azaleas, rhododendrons, and ferns
• Native Plant Gardens: Supports local biodiversity and fits seamlessly into Eastern woodland landscapes

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially during summer heat
• Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove spent blooms
• Fertilizing: Use a slow-release fertilizer for acid-loving plants in spring
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch layer to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature
• Pest Resistance: Generally resistant to deer and most pests when sited properly

Why Choose Bull's Eye Mountain Laurel?

• Distinctive Bloom Pattern: Unique maroon-and-white flowers offer unmatched visual appeal
• Evergreen Structure: Glossy foliage maintains interest all year
• Shade Tolerant: Thrives where many other flowering shrubs struggle
• Native Beauty: A cultivated form of an iconic North American species
• Focal Point: Its showy blossoms and rich foliage draw attention in any shaded garden or landscape setting

Kalmia latifolia 'Bull's Eye' delivers one-of-a-kind flowers and reliable evergreen form, making it a valuable and visually impactful addition to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and native plant landscapes.