Mountain Laurel

Description:

This is truly one of the most spectacular native wildflowers in the area. The delicate points of pink and/or red are like the designs in calico fabrics, hence the name "calica bush."

Habitat:

Native to the eastern United States. Its range stretches from southern Maine south to northern Florida, and west to Indiana and Louisiana. The plant is naturally found on rocky slopes and mountainous forest areas.

Notes:

Mountain laurel typically blooms in May and June. Said to be called "spoonwood" because native Americans used to make their spoons out of it. Spotted growing along the road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.