Keepsake Mountain Laurel

Keepsake Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Keepsake')

Keepsake Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Keepsake') is a showy evergreen shrub valued for its unusually dark blooms and compact, rounded habit. A cultivar of the native Eastern Mountain Laurel, this selection brings rich late-spring color and year-round structure to woodland gardens, shaded borders, and foundation beds.

Distinctive Features

'Keepsake' features large clusters of deep reddish-maroon flower buds that open to velvety burgundy flowers, each accented by crisp white edges and contrasting stamens. The dramatic color stands out against the glossy, dark green evergreen foliage. Maturing at about 5 to 6 feet tall and wide, the plant holds a uniform, mounded shape and provides a refined look throughout the year.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; best with some morning sun and afternoon protection
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil high in organic matter
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture preferred, especially during establishment
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold, dark blooms and evergreen structure create strong seasonal contrast
• Woodland Borders: Perfect for naturalized shaded landscapes and under tree canopies
• Foundation Planting: Compact form works well near buildings and shaded walls
• Mixed Borders: Blends well with rhododendrons, ferns, and other shade-lovers
• Native Plantings: Contributes to biodiversity while offering ornamental appeal

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, particularly during hot or dry weather
• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering helps maintain shape and encourages airflow
• Fertilizing: Apply fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants in spring
• Mulching: Helps conserve soil moisture and insulate roots
• Pest Resistance: Resistant to deer and typically free of major pests

Why Choose Keepsake Mountain Laurel?

• Deep Burgundy Blooms: Unusually dark flowers provide strong visual contrast in shady spaces
• Evergreen Structure: Offers dense, glossy foliage all year long
• Moderate Size: Ideal for mid-sized borders and foundation plantings
• Shade Adaptability: Thrives in partial to full shade where other flowering shrubs may not
• Focal Point: Rich bloom color and compact habit make it a striking accent in shade gardens

Kalmia latifolia 'Keepsake' delivers exceptional flower color and tidy evergreen form, making it a standout choice for shaded landscapes that call for both drama and reliability.