The Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is a popular shrub commonly used in landscaping across temperate regions. This broad-leaf evergreen provides year-round foliage, making it a favorite for privacy screens and hedges. The species belongs to the Prunus genus, which also includes cherries and plums. Its identity is sometimes confused due to its many common names, such as English Laurel or Common Laurel.
What Makes Cherry Laurel Evergreen?
Cherry Laurel is classified as an evergreen because it retains its leaves throughout the year, unlike deciduous plants which shed foliage seasonally. This characteristic is particularly valued in temperate climates, providing continuous, dense greenery even during the winter months. The leaves are leathery, broad, glossy, and typically deep green. Instead of a single autumn leaf drop, the plant replaces its older leaves gradually over many months, ensuring the shrub is never bare. The foliage is robust, helping the plant tolerate conditions like shade and drought once established.
Identifying Common Cherry Laurel Varieties
The term “Cherry Laurel” often refers to two distinct species: the English Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) and the Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica). English Laurel has wide, oblong, and very glossy leaves, and is known for its fast growth rate. Portuguese Laurel has smaller, more pointed, and finely toothed leaves, which are typically darker green. A key identifying feature of the Portuguese Laurel is its reddish leaf stems and new growth, offering year-round color contrast. Both varieties produce white flowers followed by small, dark purple or black cherry-like fruits.
Essential Care for Hedging and Screening
Cherry Laurel is valued for its ability to form a dense hedge or privacy screen quickly. It is adaptable, thriving in conditions from full sun to partial shade, and tolerates a range of well-drained soil types. While established plants are drought-tolerant, young plants require regular watering during dry periods to avoid stress. Pruning is necessary to maintain shape and promote dense growth; heavy trimming is best done in late winter or early spring, and maintenance pruning should occur after flowering. Use hand pruners rather than hedge shears, as shears can cut the large leaves, leaving unsightly brown edges.
Important Safety and Toxicity Information
The Cherry Laurel contains toxic compounds known as cyanogenic glycosides, which are present in most parts of the plant. When leaves or seeds are chewed, crushed, or digested, these glycosides release hydrogen cyanide (prussic acid). This makes ingestion of the leaves, stems, and especially the seeds hazardous to humans, pets, and livestock. Symptoms of poisoning can include gastrointestinal distress and difficulty breathing. Gardeners should wear gloves when pruning, and trimmings must be disposed of responsibly; burning the clippings should be avoided, as the smoke can also be toxic.