Prunus laurocerasus
(Cherry Laurel )

Family - Rosaceae
Category - Shrub
Origin - Eastern Europe, Southwestern Asia
Year of Introduction - 1576
Season of Interest - Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter
Hardiness - H5
Height - 6m or more
Width - 6m or more
Location - The Woodland Walk

Description: A large-sized Evergreen Shrub with a bushy, spreading habit. Glossy, mid to dark green leaves are oblong to Elliptic in shape and have a thick, leathery texture. Many highly fragrant, white, cup-shaped flowers with spreading petals are produced in upright Racemes in mid-spring. The flowers are followed by round red berries that turn to black with age. Prunus laurocerasus is mostly used for hedging and screening purposes, and the ultimate height and spread can be controlled through pruning.

Additional common names - Common Laurel, Laurel

Flower:

Highly scented, white, cup-shaped flowers with spreading petals are produced in upright racemes in April. Flowers are followed by round red berries that turn to black with age.

Flower colour: White

Flower shape: Cup-shaped flowers in racemes

Flowering time: April

Foliage:

Glossy, mid to dark green leaves are oblong to Elliptic in shape and have a leathery texture. Leaves are Alternately arranged on the branches.

Foliage Senescence: Evergreen

Foliage Shape: Oblong to elliptic

Poison Information:

This plant is poisonous and will cause discomfort if ingested.

Propagation:

Cuttings, seed.

Cultivation:

Best in sun or shade in moisture retentive, but well drained soil.