Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is a favored evergreen shrub, often chosen for its capacity to create dense, robust hedges and screens. Its potential for rapid growth quickly establishes privacy and structure in a landscape. However, the exact speed at which it grows depends on genetics, location, and care practices. Understanding these variables is important when using this plant for a fast-growing barrier.
Quantifying the Growth Rate
Cherry Laurel is categorized as a fast-growing shrub, which is advantageous when establishing a new hedge. Under optimal conditions, most established cultivars exhibit an average growth rate of 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 centimeters) per year in height and spread. This rate is vigorous compared to many other common evergreen shrubs.
While 1 to 2 feet is the typical range, specific cultivars and conditions can push this annual increase closer to 3 feet. This rapid vertical growth allows the plant to quickly reach the desired screening height. This measurement refers to the new growth added each year, influenced more by cultural practices than by the shrub’s eventual mature size.
Environmental Factors Influencing Speed
The environment significantly influences whether the plant achieves its maximum growth potential. Cherry Laurel performs best in full sun to partial shade, though it tolerates full shade. Plants in less than ideal light conditions will still grow, but their overall vigor and speed will be reduced.
The shrub prefers fertile, well-drained soil that retains consistent moisture. Poorly draining locations or heavy clay can lead to waterlogging, which stresses the roots and results in stunted growth. Consistent water availability is important during the first two years after planting, as this supports the deep root development necessary for long-term health and fast growth.
Growth Differences Across Cultivars
The term “Cherry Laurel” encompasses numerous cultivars, each possessing distinct growth habits and rates. Not all laurels grow at the same speed, even in the same environment. Cultivars like ‘Rotundifolia’ are known for being fast and robust, often achieving the upper limits of the 2-foot annual growth range.
Other popular varieties are selected for more moderate or compact growth. For instance, ‘Schipkaensis’ is an upright grower that is vigorous but often outpaced by the fastest types. Conversely, dwarf forms like ‘Otto Luyken’ and ‘Zabeliana’ have a spreading habit, making them inherently slower and smaller. These compact varieties are better suited for foundation plantings or smaller gardens.
Pruning and Maintenance for Optimal Vigor
Proper maintenance is necessary to encourage and manage the plant’s vigor. Annual feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer provides nutrients to support rapid growth and maintain dense foliage. Applying fertilizer in the fall, during the dormant period, boosts the plant’s energy stores for a strong flush of new growth in the spring.
Pruning techniques directly influence the growth rate and shape. While hard pruning temporarily slows the plant, it promotes long-term density by stimulating lateral branching. Light shaping should be done in late spring or early summer after flowering. If significant size reduction is required, a harder cutback should be performed in late winter before new growth begins.