Kalmia latifolia 'Sarah'

'Sarah' is a cultivar of Mountain Laurel, a broadleaf, evergreen shrub or small tree in the Ericaceae (blueberry) family that is native to eastern North America. 'Sarah' blooms in the late spring with red flower buds that open to a rich pink to coral color with dots on the petals.  It is a slow growing, dense, rounded shrub reaching four or five feet tall in ten years and developing gnarly branches with age. As the flowers fade, lush foliage erupts into burgundy hues. 'Sarah' displays glossy green leaves that are smaller and twistier than other varieties.

'Sarah' has better sun tolerance that the parent Mountain Laurel shrub and tolerates a wide range of light conditions, from full sun to full shade. It grows best in partial shade (morning sun with early to mid-afternoon shade) and in cool, moist, acidic, humus-rich, well-drained soils. Mulch to retain moisture and keep root zones cool. The plant does not grow well in heavy clay soils or wet soils. In heavy soils, raised plantings should be considered to promote better drainage. Remove spent flower clusters immediately after bloom and prune branches back lightly after bloom to promote bushy growth. When pruning, keep in mind that next year's blossoms and fruit will appear on old growth.

'Sarah' works well in the garden as a mass planting and can be used as a short hedge, in a shrub border, woodland or cottage garden, or along a foundation.

Fire Risk: This plant has a high flammability rating and should not be planted within the defensible space of your home. Select plants with a low flammability rating for the sites nearest your home. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: 

Scale, white fly, borers, and lace bugs are occasional pests. Leaf spots and blights are occasional diseases.