Kalmia procumbens

Kalmia procumbens
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
(unranked):	Angiosperms
(unranked):	Eudicots
(unranked):	Asterids
Order:	Ericales
Family:	Ericaceae
Genus:	Kalmia
Species:	K. procumbens
Binomial name
Kalmia procumbens (L.) Gift & Kron
Synonyms
Azalea procumbens L. Chamaecistus procumbens (L.) Kuntze Loiseleuria procumbens (L.) Desv.

Kalmia procumbens, commonly known as alpine azalea^[1] or trailing azalea,^[2] is a dwarf shrub of high mountain regions of the Northern Hemisphere that usually grows no more than 10 centimeters (4 in) tall. Originally named by Linnaeus as Azalea procumbens, it is also named after French botanist L.L.A. Loiseleur-Deslongchamps - Loiseleuria procumbens.

Distribution

Kalmia procumbens is not well known though it has been widely distributed. These plants are common in the subarctic regions and high mountains of the northern hemisphere. This species is also found in Eurasia. It is also found in Maine. Easy to propagate and will make an excellent rock garden plant

Habitat and Ecology

Kalmia procumbens prefers alpine or subalpine, rocky exposed habitat. They grow above treeline with mountain heathers and at low elevations in bogs.

Morphology

Kalmia procumbens flowers

Individuals of this species are shrub grown for two to five rose-pink flowers. Its leaves are opposite and its evergreen leaves are leathery blades to 8mm long and have incised margin. Edges are rolled under green on the top and white with dense short hairs underneath.

Flowers and fruit

Kalmia procumbens fruits

Flowers of Kalmia procumbens are bell shaped and five lobed, and have five stamens. The flowering time is late spring and summer however it also depends upon altitude and climate.

References

Notes

1. Maine Department of Conservation Natural Areas Program. 2004. Loiseleuria procumbens (L.) Desv. Alpine Azalea. http://www.maine.gov/doc/nrimc/mnap/features/loiseleuria_procumbens.pdf
2. Wiley, L. 1969. Rare wild flowers of North America. Pp 308-313.