WSU Clark County Extension
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Portugal Laurel

Scientific name: Prunus lusitanica
Taxonomy
Family:Rosaceae
Type:Evergreen shrubs
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:4 to 9
Plant Characteristics
Height:25 ft
Width:15 ft
Bloom:Spring flowers
Bloom Time:May to June
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description Originating in Spain & Portugal this broadleaf evergreen laurel is grown extensively in areas west of the Cascades as either a sheared hedge, as a single specimen plant, or as small garden tree if the lower limbs are removed.

  Morphology:
Portugal laurel features leathery, glossy, dark-green leaves which are 5" long and 2" wide. In late spring - early summer, small white flowers on 5"-10" long spikes appear followed by clusters of tiny, red to dark purple fruit. While humans should not consume the ripe berries, birds will strip them all once they are ripe.

  Adaptation:
This species performs best in moist, well-drained soil supplemented with organic matter. Portugal laurel is slightly slower growing than cherry laurel (Prunus caroliniana), but more tolerant of heat, sun, wind and drought. The U.S. National Park service considers this species as invasive in both Oregon and Washington, so it should not be allowed to spread outside of a yard or garden.

  Pests:
None.
For assistance, contact Dr. Charles Brun (brunc@wsu.edu), (360) 397-6060 5701
Computing and Web Resources, PO Box 6234, Washington State University, Pullman WA 99164-6234