Cherry laurel
Also known as
English laurel, Common laurel, Laurel cherry, Prunus laurel
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
Get the appAbout Cherry laurel
Prunus laurocerasus, commonly called cherry laurel or English laurel, is a vigorous, broadleaf evergreen shrub or small tree prized for dense screening and hedging. Native to regions around the Black Sea, it forms a compact to sprawling habit with glossy, leathery leaves typically 10–20 cm long. In mid- to late spring it bears fragrant, bee-attracting white flowers in upright racemes, followed by shiny black drupes relished by birds (all seeds and foliage are toxic to people and pets). The plant grows rapidly and responds well to clipping, making it popular for formal hedges, privacy screens, and windbreaks. It tolerates a wide range of soils—preferably moist, fertile, and well-drained—and is notably shade-tolerant for an evergreen, yet can handle full sun in cooler climates. Once established, it endures short dry spells, though best performance occurs with consistent moisture and mulch. In some mild, moist regions it can self-seed and naturalize, so monitor for unwanted spread near woodlands. Routine pruning improves air flow and reduces disease such as shot-hole.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for Cherry laurel
Water
Water deeply and infrequently to promote deep rooting. During the first growing season, keep soil evenly moist, supplying about 2.5–5 cm (1–2 inches) of water per week from rain and irrigation, adjusting for heat, wind, and soil type. Once established, cherry laurel tolerates short dry spells, but prolonged drought reduces vigor and increases pest pressure. Avoid waterlogging—saturated clay invites root problems. Apply a 5–7 cm mulch layer to moderate temperature and moisture, keeping mulch pulled back from stems.
Light
Thrives in partial shade to bright, dappled light and is notably shade-tolerant for an evergreen. In cool maritime climates it handles full sun; in hotter or continental regions, protect from intense afternoon sun to avoid scorch and nutrient stress. Deep shade can cause sparse, leggy growth—slightly increase light or prune to stimulate interior shoots. Reflective surfaces and wind amplify sunburn risk, so pair sun exposure with mulch and consistent moisture. Foliage is often richest green in light to moderate shade.
Nutrients
Cherry laurel is a moderate feeder; in average garden soil it needs minimal fertilizer. In early spring, apply a slow-release balanced formula (e.g., 10-10-10) at label rates, then mulch 5–7 cm with compost to enrich soil and conserve moisture. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds after midsummer to prevent tender growth susceptible to frost. On alkaline soils showing interveinal chlorosis, supplement with chelated iron or incorporate acidifying organic amendments such as composted pine bark. Always water-in fertilizer and test soil periodically to avoid salt buildup.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA Zones 6–9 (some cultivars may reach Zone 5 with protection). Ideal growth occurs around 10–27°C (50–80°F). Established plants typically withstand brief cold to about −18°C (0°F), though flower buds are less hardy. In hot-summer climates, temperatures above 35°C (95°F) with dry winds can scorch leaves—provide afternoon shade and steady soil moisture. Avoid heavy pruning immediately before hard freezes; prune in late winter or right after bloom. Container-grown specimens need winter shelter from severe cold.
