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Mountain Laurel
Kalmia latifolia
In the United States:
Native
· also called mountain laurel, calico bush
Honeybees visit mountain laurel primarily for pollen, which is explosively released onto them when they trigger the anthers while seeking nectar; peak bloom occurs in late spring. Though nectar is minimal and safe for bees, heavy foraging can produce honey toxic to humans. It thrives in acidic soils and is somewhat deer-resistant due to toxicity.
| Nectar | low |
|---|---|
| Pollen | medium |
| Bloom (US) | May–June |
| Hardiness zones | 4-9 |
| Duration | ~3 weeks |
| Type | Perennial |
| Sun | partial |
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