KALMIA

any of about six species of evergreen shrubs constituting a genus (Kalmia) in the heath family (Ericaceae). All the species occur in North America and the West Indies. The leaves, which are borne on short stalks, are smooth-edged and opposite, alternate, or whorled (i.e., with three or more growing from one point in a circle). The bowl-shaped, five-lobed showy flowers are pink, purple, lavender, or white and are borne in terminal or lateral (arising from the leaf axil) clusters. The anthers (pollen-bearing tips of the stamens) are tucked into pockets on the inner surface of the petals. When touched by an insect, the anthers spring free, scattering pollen onto the insect's body. Three species are particularly well known: K. angustifolia, sometimes called sheep laurel, dwarf laurel, pig laurel, and lambkill; K. latifolia, sometimes called mountain laurel, American laurel, calico bush, and spoonwood; and K. polifolia, sometimes called pale laurel, bog laurel, or bog kalmia. K. angustifolia, like K. polifolia, has foliage that is poisonous to grazing animals. It occurs throughout eastern North America, most often on damp soil in open areas. It grows about 90170 cm (about 36 feet) tall and has erect, unbranching stems, with lance-shaped leaves that are opposite and narrow. The lavender or rose flowers grow in lateral clusters. Kalmia latifolia occurs in most mountainous regions of eastern North America. It grows to about 100 cm in height, and its oval leaves are alternate or whorled. The rosy, pink, or white flowers appear in large terminal clusters. K. polifolia, found in peaty or boggy soils of northern North America, grows to about 60 cm, has oval leaves (opposite or whorled), and rosy or bluish pink flowers that grow in a terminal cluster.