Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Carolina Wicky (Kalmia carolina) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub native to the southeastern United States, known for its attractive pink to red flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates. Can tolerate full sun if consistently moist.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Reduce watering in dormant periods.
Acidic, moist, well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures but thrives in cooler conditions. Protect from extreme heat and harsh winter winds.
Acid-Loving
25% intensity
Feed in early spring with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
All parts are toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in winter. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, especially in containers.
Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Prune immediately after flowering in late spring or early summer to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Avoid pruning too late in the season, as this can affect next year's blooms.
Best propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Use a rooting hormone and keep cuttings in a humid environment with good bottom heat.
Seed propagation is possible but can be slow and may not result in true-to-type plants.
Repot young plants every 1-2 years in spring before new growth begins. Use a well-draining, acidic potting mix. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Mature plants can be left undisturbed for longer periods.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Carolina Wicky (Kalmia carolina)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Kalmia |
| Species | Kalmia carolina |
Similar in genus Kalmia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data