When exploring the rich history and natural beauty of Pennsylvania, one symbol stands out with particular pride—the Mountain Laurel, our Pennsylvania state flower. This article is perfect for parents who want to share some fascinating facts with their children about this beautiful flower that represents our state so well.
What is the Official State Flower of Pennsylvania?
The Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) has been the official Pennsylvania state flower since 1933. Governor Gifford Pinchot made the final decision to select the Mountain Laurel after the General Assembly had passed two bills, each naming a different favorite shrub—Mountain Laurel and Pink Azalea. Pinchot chose the Mountain Laurel, and it was officially signed into law on May 5, 1933. This choice reflects the flower’s abundant presence throughout the state and its beautiful, distinctive appearance.
A Closer Look at the Mountain Laurel
The Mountain Laurel is a perennial evergreen shrub, meaning it stays green year-round. It belongs to the heath family (Ericaceae), which also includes other familiar shrubs like huckleberries, blueberries, azaleas, cranberries, and rhododendrons.
In the late spring to early summer, the Mountain Laurel bursts into bloom with clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. These flowers can range in color from white to pink, and they have a unique, intricate design that looks almost like they’ve been carefully painted. The flowers typically begin blooming in late May, and their pink and white blossoms are in evidence well into June.
The leaves of the Mountain Laurel are lance-shaped, glossy, and dark green, measuring three to four inches long. They are leathery in texture, resembling the leaves of rhododendrons but generally smaller in size. The plant itself can grow anywhere from 4 to 10 feet tall, although in some southern states, specimens as tall as 40 feet have been found. The Mountain Laurel is commonly found growing on rocky hilltops and wooded hillsides throughout Pennsylvania.
Fun Facts About the Mountain Laurel
- Common Name: The Mountain Laurel is also known as “calico-bush” or “ivy bush.”
- Scientific Name: The scientific name for the Mountain Laurel is Kalmia latifolia.
- Toxicity: While beautiful, it’s important to note that all parts of the Mountain Laurel are toxic if ingested, so it’s not a plant to be eaten by animals or humans.
- Native Range: This shrub is native to the eastern United States, and Pennsylvania is one of the states where it thrives the most.
- Myth Debunked: There is a common myth that the designation of the Mountain Laurel as the state flower affords it protected status. However, this is not true. While you cannot remove any plant from public or private land without the landowner’s or land manager’s permission, there are no legal restrictions on the cultivation of Mountain Laurel.
Where Can You See the Mountain Laurel in Pennsylvania?
The Mountain Laurel is widespread across Pennsylvania, especially in the mountainous regions. One of the best places to see these beautiful flowers in full bloom is in the state parks, such as Ricketts Glen State Park or the Pocono Mountains. These areas become a sea of pink and white blossoms during the blooming season, attracting thousands of tourists from Pennsylvania and surrounding states each spring.
Why Is the Mountain Laurel our Pennsylvania State Flower?
The Mountain Laurel was chosen as the state flower because of its beauty and its deep connection to Pennsylvania’s natural landscape. Its selection highlights the state’s appreciation for its natural heritage and the beauty of its wilderness areas. The Mountain Laurel is not only a symbol of Pennsylvania’s natural beauty but also a reminder of the importance of preserving these natural areas for future generations.
How to Draw the Pennsylvania State Flower
Drawing the Mountain Laurel can be a fun activity for kids. Start by drawing a simple five-pointed star shape for the flower, then add small circles in the center to represent the flower’s intricate details. The leaves can be drawn as elongated ovals, with a slightly pointed tip. Coloring the flower in shades of pink or white, with green leaves, will help bring your drawing to life.
Teaching Your Kids About the Mountain Laurel
Parents can use the Mountain Laurel as a way to introduce children to the concept of state symbols and the importance of plants in our environment. You can discuss how plants like the Mountain Laurel provide habitats for wildlife, contribute to the beauty of our landscapes, and even hold cultural significance.
Next time you take a walk through Pennsylvania’s forests, keep an eye out for the beautiful Mountain Laurel. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and share a piece of Pennsylvania’s heritage with your children.
