Laurel Flowers

“Laurel flowers” commonly refers to Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia), a North American evergreen shrub bearing striking star-shaped white to pink blossoms with intricate markings. Culturally linked to victory and honor through the tradition of laurel wreaths.

Occasions & recipients

Find flowers by occasion

Best occasions

  • Graduation
  • Promotion/Career Milestones
  • Award Ceremonies
  • Opening Night/Performance
  • Academic Honors

Suitable for

  • graduates and achievers
  • mentors and teachers
  • colleagues (congratulatory)
  • athletes and performers
  • academics and scholars
Color taboos
  • Pure white may be reserved for funerals in some East Asian cultures
  • Deep maroon can feel somber for upbeat celebrations
  • Red-heavy accents may be too intense for condolence settings
  • Highly variegated ‘calico’ patterns can read playful rather than formal
Card messages
  • Wishing you laurels for every victory—congratulations!
  • Your hard work earned its wreath—so proud of you!
  • May these laurels celebrate today and inspire tomorrow.
  • To new heights and well‑deserved honors—bravo!
  • Here’s to your achievement—wear the laurel with pride.

At a glance

Key details

Quick reference for habitat, gifting etiquette, and safety when choosing flowers for different occasions and recipients.

Use this section as a practical checklist: where they grow, how to present them thoughtfully, and what to keep in mind regarding toxicity and sensitivity.

Botanical info

Taxonomy
Kalmia latifolia (Mountain Laurel); Family: Ericaceae; Common names: mountain laurel, calico-bush, spoonwood
Distribution
Native to the eastern United States (from New England south through the Appalachians to the Southeast); abundant in woodland understories; widely cultivated as an ornamental in suitable climates.
Conservation
Generally not threatened; native woodland shrub in the eastern U.S.; avoid wild-harvesting blooms and protect natural stands; rely on nursery-grown cultivars; local protections may apply in sensitive habitats.
Presentation etiquette
Present as elegant branchy sprays or in victory-themed designs (wreaths/garlands); disclose toxicity and avoid gifting to households with pets or small children; pair with restrained greens and neutral vessels; deliver cool and hydrated; avoid strongly perfumed companions.
Ideal delivery time
Deliver in the cool morning when buds are showing color but not fully open; keep stems hydrated and cool during transport; avoid midday heat.
Toxicity
Highly toxic if ingested (grayanotoxins) to humans, cats, dogs, and livestock; symptoms include nausea, vomiting, weakness, bradycardia and arrhythmias; honey from its nectar can be toxic. Keep away from pets and children.
Allergenicity
Generally low airborne pollen exposure; mild contact dermatitis possible from sap; fragrance is light; sensitive individuals should avoid handling foliage and sap.

Meaning & taboos

Symbolism & color
Laurel—especially in wreath form—has long symbolized victory, honor, and academic achievement; mountain laurel’s evergreen nature adds themes of endurance and protection.

Growing & tools

Care & gear
Growing tips
Evergreen shrub for partial shade; acidic, well-drained soil rich in organic matter; keep roots cool with mulch; water consistently but avoid waterlogging; prune lightly after bloom; hardy in USDA Zones 5–9; avoid alkaline/lime amendments.
Recommended tools
  • Bypass pruners (post-bloom shaping)
  • Soil pH test kit (maintain acidity)
  • Mulch (pine bark or needles)
  • Soaker hose or watering can
  • Hand saw for older woody stems
Symbolizes
  • victory
  • achievement
  • resilience
  • honor
  • protection