Kalmia spp.

Kalmia spp. is toxic to cats, dogs and horses. The reported severity is critical. Also known as Mountain-Laurels, Mountain Laurel and Sheep Laurel.

dogs cats horses

Mild Moderate Severe Critical

This plant is known to be potentially deadly!

  • If you're comfortable with the risk, ensure this plant is out of reach of your animal.
  • If you suspect your animal has ingested portions of this plant, immediately consult your veterinarian.
  • If your animal is experiencing any of the associated symptoms, immediately contact your veterinarian's emergency number for further instructions.

If your animal ate this plant, call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control on (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline on (855) 764-7661. Fees may apply.

Symptoms to watch for

Vomiting Diarrhea Weakness Cardiac Failure Abdominal Pain Drooling Loss Of Appetite Colic Depression Incoordination Stupor Paralysis Weak Pulse Recumbency Coma Death Tremors Seizures High Heart Rate Difficulty Breathing

The color of each symptom follows the severity scale above.

About

Kalmia is a genus of about ten species of evergreen shrubs from 0.2–5 m tall, in the family Ericaceae (heath). They are native to North America and Cuba. They grow in acidic soils, with different species in wet acid bog habitats and dry, sandy soils.

Common Names

  • Mountain-Laurels
  • Mountain Laurel
  • Sheep Laurel
  • Swamp Laurel
  • Western Bog Laurel
  • Kalm's Lobelia
  • Alpine Azalea
  • Sand Myrtle
  • Prairie Brome
  • Sandhill Laurel
  • Carolina Wicky
  • Kalm's St. John's-Wort
  • Canada Hawkweed
  • White Wicky

Also recorded as Kalmia, Lambkill, Laurel, Spoonwood and sheepkills.

Facts

Family
Ericaceae
Duration
Perennial
Growth habit
Shrub, Subshrub, Tree
In the wild
US, CA, NO, CH, FR, AT + more
Source
Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0
Elsewhere

Countries with the most wild observations, from GBIF data.