Kalmia Carousel

Kalmia Carousel is a compact evergreen shrub grown for its distinctive flowers. Each bloom is white with bold burgundy-red interior markings and bands, giving the flower a decorative, patterned look. The flowers appear in late spring, around October to November, in rounded clusters that sit neatly above the foliage. Mature plants reach around 1 to 1.5m high and wide.

This kalmia suits a woodland garden, a cottage garden border, or a Japanese-style planting. It works well alongside rhododendrons, azaleas, and ferns, where the dappled light suits all plants equally. Mass several together for a layered shrub bed, or use a single plant as a focal point in a shaded corner.

Grow Kalmia Carousel in part shade or filtered light. It prefers free-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Work compost through the planting area and mulch well to keep roots cool and moist. Avoid exposed, hot positions and waterlogged ground.

Trim lightly after flowering and water regularly through the first summer. Kalmia is toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if any part of the plant is eaten, so take care in pet households. It is generally well suited to most NZ regions but performs best where summers are not excessively hot and dry.