Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
Mountain Laurel is a flowering evergreen shrub native to the Appalachian Mountains, celebrated for its striking clusters of pink and white blooms. These flowers appear in late spring to early summer and are most vibrant with some sun exposure—though too much direct sunlight can scorch the foliage.

While beautiful, Mountain Laurel is also highly toxic. All parts of the plant are poisonous to both humans and wildlife. Even honey produced by bees that feed on its nectar—sometimes called “mad honey”—can cause serious health effects such as nausea, dizziness, sweating, low blood pressure, and in severe cases, even death. Historically, Delaware Indians are said to have used the plant for suicide, underscoring its potency.

Despite its toxicity, Mountain Laurel has also been used medicinally in small, controlled doses. Its leaves have been used in traditional remedies to treat ringworm, psoriasis, herpes, and syphilis. However, extreme caution is necessary, and any medicinal use should only be guided by experts.

The plant’s leaves resemble those of the culinary bay laurel, though they are unrelated and not safe for cooking. This resemblance has contributed to historical confusion, especially since laurel wreaths—symbols of power and victory in Greek and Roman culture—were associated with the true Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis), not the Mountain Laurel.

Safety Notes:
Do not ingest any part of the Mountain Laurel.
Do not burn the plant—its smoke is toxic.
Safe to touch, though protective gloves are recommended when handling.
Mountain Laurel is a complex plant—stunning in appearance, steeped in myth, but worthy of respect and caution.