What Is the PA State Flower?
The PA state flower is the mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia). The mountain laurel is an evergreen shrub that is native to the eastern United States. It typically grows to be between 6 and 10 feet tall, with leathery leaves and beautiful pink, white, or purple flowers. They are related to heather and rhododendrons. The mountain laurel blooms in late June or early July, making it a popular choice for summer gardens. In addition to being the state flower of Pennsylvania, the mountain laurel is also the state flower of Connecticut.
Other Names of Pennsylvania State Flower
PA state flower (Kalmia latifolia), or the mountain laurel, is also known under the names of calico-bush and spoonwood.
What Does PA State Flower Look Like?
Mountain laurel flowers are ostentatiously beautiful. They are distinctive in both their appearance and their structure. The flowers are clustered together in a large inflorescence, which makes for a showy impression. Each flower has around 10 petals that are arranged in a whorl around the center of the flower. The flower buds before blooming are star shaped. The petals are white, purple or pink. They bloom in a distinct cup shape.
Where Does the Mountain Laurel Grow?
The mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) is a native plant of the eastern United States. It ranges from southern Maine to northern Florida and west to Indiana and Louisiana. The mountain laurel is uncommon in the mountains but can be found in rocky woods, ravines, and stream banks at elevations up to 5,000 feet. In Pennsylvania, the mountain laurel can be found in woodlands and along hiking trails.
Can You Grow PA State Flowers in Your Garden?
Kalmia latifolia is a popular landscaping plant and can be cultivated in both gardens and wilderness areas. In Pennsylvania, the mountain laurel can be found growing in woodlands, along hiking trails, and in state parks.
While it is relatively easy to grow, the mountain laurel does require some care and attention. For best results, plant mountain laurels in a shady spot with well-drained, acidic soil. Water regularly during the growing season, and apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and protect the roots from extreme temperatures.
If you want a more natural look, then you probably don’t need to do much pruning. However, if you want a neat and tidy appearance, then be sure to remove any dead, damaged branches, crossing or rubbing branches. You should also thin out the center of the plant to improve air circulation and light penetration. With a bit of love and care, you can enjoy a blooming mountain laurel in your backyard for many years to come.
Did Native Americans Use Mountain Laurel?
The mountain laurel is a native plant of North America that has been used by various Native American tribes for centuries. The plant has a long history of medicinal and ceremonial use. For example, the Cherokee tribe used a decoction of the root bark to treat diarrhea, while the Mohegan tribe used an infusion of the leaves to treat colds and flu. The shrub was commonly used to carve wood as well.
Other Uses of Mountain Laurel
Mountain laurel is a popular landscaping plant and can be used as an informal hedge, foundation planting, or accent plant. It is also a popular choice for Bonsai. The leaves can be used in floral arrangements, and the wood can be carved. Its wood has also been used for small home objects and railings; less often for furniture and floors.
Is Mountain Laurel Poisonous?
The state flower of Pennsylvania is the mountain laurel, and it is indeed poisonous. All parts of the plant contain poisons that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if ingested. In large enough quantities, these poisons can be fatal. The PA state flower is a popular ornamental plant, but it should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
The History of the Pennsylvania State Flower
In 1933, the General Assembly had passed two bills which stood in opposition to each other, pointing two different flowers for the honor of bearing the symbol of the state: mountain laurel and the pink azalea. Governor Gifford Pinchot signed the bill designating mountain laurel. It is believed his wife influenced the decision. The mountain laurel is distinctive for its ability to thrive in difficult growing conditions. This hardy plant has been a symbol of Pennsylvania’s strength and resilience for years.
Symbolism of Mountain Laurel Flowers
In the United States, the mountain laurel flower is symbolic of strength and determination. The flower grows in mountainous regions and is known for its ability to survive in difficult conditions. The mountain laurel is also a popular choice for landscaping because of its beauty and resilience. For many people, the mountain laurel flower symbolizes the qualities of strength, determination, and beauty.
