kalmia
kalmia Lexical Profile
kalmia Game Scores & Validity
• noun
An evergreen shrub of the genus Kalmia in the heath family, native to North America and Cuba, characterized by leathery leaves and showy clusters of pink or white cup-shaped flowers.
"The hikers admired the blossoming kalmia as they walked through the humid Appalachian forests."
The mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia), a specific popular ornamental species of this genus known for its beautiful spring blossoms and highly toxic foliage.
"Because kalmia is highly poisonous to livestock, farmers are careful to clear it from their grazing pastures."
• Rhymes for kalmia
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Named by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century in honor of his student, the Swedish botanist and explorer Pehr (Peter) Kalm, who collected the plant during his travels in North America.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.