Star Burst Mountain Laurel

Star Burst Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Star Burst')

Star Burst Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia 'Star Burst') is a standout evergreen shrub admired for its unique, bi-colored blooms and tidy growth habit. A refined selection of the native Eastern Mountain Laurel, this cultivar brings eye-catching late-spring color and year-round greenery to shaded borders, foundation plantings, and woodland settings.

Distinctive Features

'Star Burst' features star-shaped flower clusters with soft pink petals accented by a central burst of maroon-red markings. The two-tone blooms appear in rounded clusters above glossy, deep green foliage, providing strong visual contrast in late spring. Its compact, rounded form typically grows 3 to 5 feet tall and wide, making it well-suited for smaller landscapes or layered borders.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full shade; thrives with morning sun and afternoon protection
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil with high organic content
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture without soggy conditions
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�8

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Distinctive blooms make this a striking highlight in shade gardens
• Foundation Planting: Works beautifully in low-growing beds near shaded structures
• Woodland Borders: Natural pairing with rhododendrons, ferns, and native perennials
• Mixed Evergreen Borders: Adds spring interest and year-round texture
• Native Landscapes: Combines ornamental appeal with ecological value

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during the growing season
• Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape
• Fertilizing: Use an acid-formulated fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch layer to protect roots and preserve soil moisture
• Pest Resistance: Generally deer resistant and low in pest issues

Why Choose Star Burst Mountain Laurel?

• Unique Flower Pattern: Two-tone blooms offer a bold and elegant spring display
• Compact Size: Ideal for small gardens and layered plantings
• Evergreen Foliage: Year-round structure with glossy, disease-resistant leaves
• Shade Tolerant: Excellent performer in dappled or deep shade environments
• Focal Point: Unusual blooms and tidy form make it a memorable centerpiece in any shaded landscape

Kalmia latifolia 'Star Burst' offers distinctive floral character and compact evergreen beauty, making it a strong addition to gardens seeking color, structure, and native charm in shaded spaces.