Sara Mountain Laurel

Sara Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Sara')

Sara Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Sara') is an elegant evergreen shrub prized for its soft yet vibrant blooms and compact, rounded growth habit. A cultivated form of Eastern Mountain Laurel, this variety offers dependable performance and delicate late-spring color in shaded garden spaces, making it ideal for both naturalized and formal landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Sara' produces pale pink to medium rose flowers, each adorned with subtle red markings that radiate from the center. The blooms appear in dome-shaped clusters above the plant�s glossy, dark green foliage, offering refined visual interest during late spring. The shrub typically reaches 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, with a uniform, well-branched form that stays tidy without heavy pruning.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; benefits from morning sun and afternoon protection
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter
• Water: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil and does not tolerate drought
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Graceful blooms and evergreen form offer understated beauty in shaded beds
• Foundation Planting: Works well beneath windows and along shaded structures
• Woodland Borders: Complements ferns, hostas, and other native understory plants
• Mixed Shrub Borders: Provides seasonal bloom and structure year-round
• Native Gardens: Supports biodiversity with ornamental charm

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and summer heat
• Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to shape and encourage airflow
• Fertilizing: Apply a fertilizer for acid-loving plants in early spring
• Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and protect shallow roots
• Pest Resistance: Typically deer resistant and rarely affected by pests

Why Choose Sara Mountain Laurel?

• Soft Pink Flowers: Delicate blooms bring graceful color to shaded gardens
• Compact Habit: Tidy, well-branched form fits comfortably in smaller spaces
• Evergreen Foliage: Provides year-round greenery and structure
• Shade Performance: Thrives in low-light environments with reliable bloom
• Focal Point: A refined choice for those seeking subtle seasonal color and evergreen elegance

Kalmia latifolia 'Sara' offers gentle bloom color and evergreen structure in a compact package, making it an excellent choice for shaded borders, foundation plantings, and naturalized woodland landscapes where quiet elegance is key.