

How to identify Bog laurel (Kalmia polifolia)
Bog laurel, also known as Western bog laurel, Box laurel, Swamp laurel
Bog laurel is a low-growing evergreen that forms dense mats. Characteristically, it features striking pink, bell-shaped flowers that lend a decorative quality. The plant displays a high tolerance to both shaded environments and flooding conditions, allowing it to thrive in varied habitats. Vegetative reproduction can be achieved through stem cuttings in the summer months, and propagation is also possible via seeds. The evergreen leaves and distinct floral displays of bog laurel make it a distinguishable member of the heath family.
Distinct pink bell-shaped flowers
Dense mat-forming low growth
Woody capsules less than 1 inch
Tolerance to shaded and flooded environments
Vegetative reproduction via stem cuttings
The flowers of bog laurel are notable for their showy pink bell-shaped blooms, which form in clusters of 2-5 flowers. Each individual flower is about 0.5-1 inch (1.3-2.5 cm) in diameter. The petals are fused at the base, creating a bell shape that flares slightly at the open end. Blooming from May to June, these flowers lend a delicate and attractive appearance. They emit a mild, pleasant fragrance, adding to their charm during the spring bloom period.
The fruit of bog laurel is a woody capsule, typically less than an inch long, divided into chambers. When mature, it splits open to release the seeds. The capsule's exterior is usually greenish to brownish, taking on a drier, wood-like texture as it matures. Its size and dehiscent nature—splitting open at maturity—are notable features for identification. Although inconspicuous, these fruits are critical for the plant's reproductive cycle and can be found clinging to the branches after the flowering season concludes.
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Scientific Classification of Bog laurel