WSU Clark County Extension
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Cherry Laurel

Scientific name: Prunus laurocerasus
Taxonomy
Family:Rosaceae
Type:Evergreen shrubs
Native:NO
Plant Requirements
Zone:6 to 9
Sun:Full to partial sun
Moisture:Medium
Plant Characteristics
Height:20 ft
Width:10 ft
Bloom:Showy flowers
Bloom Time:April to May
Bloom Color:White
Additional Characteristics
Trees


Fruit

Leaves


Bark
Wildlife value

Poisonous
Description With its waxy green foliage and vigorous growth habit, Cherry Laurel is often used to form a sheared hedge. It makes a nice alternative to the more common Arborvitae hedge. It is often referred to as English Laurel in the trade.

  Morphology:
This is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that, if left un-pruned, can grow to a height of 20’ and up to 10’ in width. It forms a very dense shrub with foliage all the way down to the ground line. It bears leaves which are arranged in an alternate arrangement. The leaves are simple and can grow from 2”-6’” long and 1”-3” in width. They have finely serrated leaf margins.

If left un-pruned, Cherry Laurel will bloom in the spring sending out white fragrant racemes. These can grow to a length of 4”. Later in the year the flower clusters will morph to black berries which are one half inch in diameter.

  Adaptation:
This evergreen can survive both sun and shade. It prefers moist, organic rich soils that are acidic. It can be found near the ocean as it can withstand salt spray.

Don't allow horses to browse on the foliage as it is toxic to them.

  Pests:
Pest free.

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