The term “laurel” is commonly used in gardening to describe a variety of evergreen plants, many of which are popular for their dense foliage and versatility in landscaping. While these plants share a common name and often a similar appearance, they belong to different botanical families and possess distinct characteristics. Understanding these differences is helpful for selecting the most suitable plant for specific garden needs.
Understanding Different Laurel Types
Cherry Laurel
Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree, notable for its broad, leathery, and glossy dark green leaves that can reach up to 6 inches long; when crushed, these leaves may release an almond-like fragrance. In spring, it produces clusters of small, fragrant, creamy-white flowers, followed by small, cherry-like black fruits. This plant is frequently used for creating dense privacy hedges and screens due to its vigorous growth habit, often adding 1 to 2 feet of growth annually under optimal conditions. It adapts to a range of growing conditions, thriving in well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to alkaline pH, and tolerates both full sun and partial to heavy shade. Cultivars such as ‘Otto Luyken’ and ‘Schipkaensis’ offer more compact forms.
Portuguese Laurel
Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica) is an evergreen shrub or small tree recognized by its smaller, darker green, glossy leaves and distinctive reddish stems; its oval-shaped leaves are typically 2.5 to 5 inches long and have finely toothed margins. In late spring or early summer, it produces fragrant white flowers in long, elegant racemes, which are followed by small, berry-like drupes that ripen to a dark purple-black and attract birds. This variety is valued for its dense foliage and more refined appearance, making it suitable for formal hedges, screens, and topiary. It grows at a moderate rate, usually 1 to 2 feet per year, and is adaptable to various soil types, including poor, shallow, and chalky soils, though it prefers well-drained conditions. Portuguese Laurel performs well in full sun to partial shade and exhibits drought tolerance once established.
Bay Laurel
Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an evergreen tree or large shrub, widely recognized for its aromatic leaves, which are a common culinary herb. The leaves are dark green, shiny, and leathery. It produces inconspicuous yellow flowers in spring, though flowering is less common on container-grown plants. This species is slow-growing and can be maintained as a shrub, small tree, or trained into formal shapes like topiaries. Bay Laurel thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers fertile, well-drained soil. It is often grown in containers in cooler climates, allowing it to be moved indoors during winter for protection from frost.
Mountain Laurel
Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) is a broadleaf evergreen shrub or small tree native to eastern North America. It is distinct from the Laurus genus, belonging instead to the Ericaceae family. Its most striking feature is its clusters of unique, bell-shaped flowers, which range in color from deep pink buds opening to pale pink or white with purple markings inside. These flowers appear in late spring to early summer. The plant has glossy, leathery, dark green leaves that are typically 2 to 5 inches long. Mountain Laurel prefers cool, moist, rich, acidic, and well-drained soils, and it performs best in partial shade, particularly with morning sun and afternoon shade. All parts of the plant are considered toxic if ingested.
Spotted Laurel
Spotted Laurel (Aucuba japonica), also known as Japanese Laurel or Gold Dust Plant, is an evergreen shrub often recognized for its variegated leaves, which frequently feature yellow spots or splashes on a green background. It belongs to the Garryaceae family and is not botanically a “true” laurel. This plant is highly valued for its exceptional shade tolerance, making it suitable for dark garden corners or under trees where other plants may struggle. It typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall and wide, with leathery, glossy leaves. Small purple-maroon flowers appear in early spring, followed by bright red berries on female plants if a male pollinator is nearby. Spotted Laurel tolerates a range of soil types, including poor soils, and is resistant to urban pollution.
Choosing the Best Laurel for Your Garden
Selecting the right laurel variety involves evaluating several factors related to your garden’s environment and your desired outcome. The local climate and hardiness zones are important considerations, as each laurel type has specific temperature tolerances. For example, Bay Laurel grown in colder regions often requires containerization to allow for winter protection.
The intended purpose for the plant significantly influences the choice. If a fast-growing, dense hedge for privacy or screening is the primary goal, Cherry Laurel might be a suitable option due to its vigorous growth. For a more formal, refined hedge or topiary, the denser growth and smaller leaves of Portuguese Laurel could be preferred. If culinary use is desired, Bay Laurel is the clear choice, while Mountain Laurel is selected for its ornamental flowers in woodland settings. Spotted Laurel excels in providing year-round color and structure in shaded areas.
Considering the available space is also important, as mature sizes and growth rates vary considerably among varieties. Light conditions, from full sun to deep shade, will narrow down the options, with Spotted Laurel being particularly well-suited for low-light environments. Soil type and drainage preferences should align with your garden’s existing conditions or be amended accordingly. Finally, the level of maintenance you are willing to provide, particularly regarding pruning, can guide your decision, as some laurels require more frequent shaping than others.
General Care Guidelines for Laurel Plants
Most laurel plants share fundamental care requirements that support their overall health and vigor. Proper soil conditions are important, with a general preference for well-drained soil to prevent root rot, though some types can tolerate a range of soil textures including clay or chalk.
Consistent watering is beneficial, especially for young plants during their establishment period, to encourage strong root development. While established plants often show some drought tolerance, providing deep watering during prolonged dry spells helps maintain plant health. However, it is important to avoid overwatering or leaving plants in waterlogged conditions.
Pruning is a general practice for shaping laurel plants, managing their size, and removing any dead or damaged branches. Most laurels respond well to pruning, which can also encourage denser foliage. The timing and frequency of pruning can vary depending on the specific variety and its growth habit.
Laurel plants are generally hardy and resistant to many pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to issues like powdery mildew or root rot, particularly in humid or poorly drained conditions. Applying a balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote healthy growth, but over-fertilization should be avoided.