Mountain laurel is a native evergreen shrub with waxy green leaves that stay green all year. In the spring, it produces large pinkish-white flowers. Although mountain laurel is poisonous to humans, it is an important plant for wildlife. The leaves and flowers provide food for deer, rabbits, and birds during the winter. It also provides a good hiding place for animals, such as white-tailed deer, eastern screech owls, and many songbird species.