Bog-laurel
Kalmia polifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Bog-laurel (Kalmia polifolia) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
CT, MA, ME, MI and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees
Bog-laurel is a compact evergreen shrub with small, leathery leaves and clusters of pink cup-shaped flowers in summer. This specialty plant requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and thrives in acidic environments. It maintains a neat, low-growing form that works well in specialized garden settings.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bog-laurel takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires specialized wet soil conditions that may look problematic
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
- High water needs may appear as poor drainage issue
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and other pollinators. As an evergreen shrub, it provides year-round shelter for small wildlife.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bog-laurel fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.