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(Kalmia buxifolia)
Sandmyrtle (Kalmia buxifolia)
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Jason Hollinger
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Jason Hollinger
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Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Jason Hollinger | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 | Uploader: Josve05a | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Kalmia buxifolia, commonly known as Sandmyrtle, is an evergreen subshrub or shrub native to the sandy woods, pine barrens, and bogs of the Southeastern United States, particularly in the coastal plain regions. It typically grows to a height of 10 centimeters to one meter, forming a dense, mounded shape. The foliage is small and box-like, which is reflected in its species name. During the spring and summer, Sandmyrtle produces clusters of showy pink and white flowers that are attractive to pollinators.
Sandmyrtle is valued for its compact size, evergreen foliage, and the delicate beauty of its flowers. It is often used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, or in border plantings where its low maintenance and tolerance for poor, sandy soils are advantageous. While it prefers full sun to part shade, it requires protection from intense afternoon sun in hotter regions. It thrives in acidic, well-drained soils and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Sandmyrtle is not commonly affected by diseases or pests, making it a resilient choice for gardeners. However, it can be sensitive to root disturbance, so care should be taken when planting or transplanting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Sandmyrtle is valued for its compact size, evergreen foliage, and the delicate beauty of its flowers. It is often used in rock gardens, as a ground cover, or in border plantings where its low maintenance and tolerance for poor, sandy soils are advantageous. While it prefers full sun to part shade, it requires protection from intense afternoon sun in hotter regions. It thrives in acidic, well-drained soils and is relatively drought-tolerant once established. Sandmyrtle is not commonly affected by diseases or pests, making it a resilient choice for gardeners. However, it can be sensitive to root disturbance, so care should be taken when planting or transplanting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
- Height: 0.5-3 feet
- Width: 1-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Pink, White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Sandy woods, pine barrens, and bogs of the Southeastern United States
Other Names
Common Names: Sand-Myrtle, Sandmyrten
Scientific Names: , Kalmia buxifolia, Leiophyllum buxifolium, Leiophyllum buxifolium var. buxifolium, Leiophyllum buxifolium var. hugeri, Leiophyllum lyonii, Leiophyllum buxifolium var. prostratum, Dendrium buxifolium var. prostratum, Dendrium buxifolium, Ledum buxifolium
GBIF Accepted Name: Kalmia buxifolia (Bergius) Gift & Kron