Calico Bush

Do you know this plant?

It started flowering a week ago and I had never seen it before in my life. The buds look like Mr Whippy icecreams.

Growing amongst the Rhododendrons and Azaleas, it looks right at home.

Well my friend Joy found out what it is.
Kalmia latifolia common name Mountain Laurel or Calico bush
Grows to 2m and comes from America.
The leaves have a curious sticky feel and the flowers are apple blossom pink.
It will grow in below zero temperatures. So it is in the right place.

thanks Joy for that bit of info.

Dayla