shrub RHS Award

Cherry Laurel

Name: Cherry Laurel
Brand: Prunus
Availability: InStock

Prunus laurocerasus

$23.99

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

216 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Southeastern Europe, Southwestern Asia

Toxicity

All parts, especially leaves and seeds, are toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Prunus laurocerasus is a large, dense, evergreen shrub or small tree native to regions bordering the Black Sea. It is widely cultivated for its handsome, glossy, dark green leaves and its adaptability to a range of conditions, including shade. The species itself is notable for its versatility. It can be maintained as a formal, tightly clipped hedge, or allowed to grow into its natural large, rounded form, providing excellent year-round screening in either sun or shade.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Cherry laurel is a foundational plant in many landscapes, valued for its lush, glossy, evergreen foliage that provides a rich green backdrop year-round. Fragrant white flower spikes in spring add seasonal appeal, and its dense habit is perfect for creating a sense of enclosure and privacy.

Its primary use is for hedging and screening due to its dense growth, tolerance of heavy pruning, and adaptability to both sun and shade. It is also fast-growing, providing a visual barrier relatively quickly. Its drought and deer resistance add to its practicality.

The fragrant flowers are a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. The small, dark berries are eaten by birds, which then disperse the seeds. This dispersal mechanism contributes to its invasive potential in some areas, such as the Pacific Northwest.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Great Garden Plants

<1 Gal Pot1+ Gal PotTrays

In Stock$23.99

Nature Hills

In Stock$34.13

Fast Growing Trees

In Stock$57.95

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in sun or shade with well-drained soil.
Dig a planting hole twice as wide as the container.
Amend heavy clay soil with compost to improve drainage.
Set the plant in the hole so the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill the hole and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Mulch to conserve moisture, keeping it away from the stem.

Pro Tip

For the healthiest plants, provide well-drained soil; cherry laurel dislikes having 'wet feet' and can suffer from root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide good drainage.
Prune after flowering to maintain the desired size.
Water during dry spells, particularly when young.
Use hand pruners instead of shears on informal plants to avoid cutting large leaves in half.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged or poorly drained soil.
Avoid planting in locations exposed to harsh, drying winter winds.
Don't allow pets or children to ingest leaves or berries.
Avoid planting where it can escape into natural woodlands, as it can be invasive.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dense evergreen privacy screen or hedgeLush foundation planting for shady areasLarge-scale groundcover on slopes

Companion Plants

Rhododendron catawbiense Hosta plantaginea Viburnum davidii Mahonia bealei Aucuba japonica 'Variegata'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cherry Laurel questions

What zones can Cherry Laurel grow in?

Cherry Laurel is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cherry Laurel deer resistant?

Yes — Cherry Laurel is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cherry Laurel bloom?

Cherry Laurel typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cherry Laurel need full sun?

Cherry Laurel does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Cherry Laurel drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cherry Laurel handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.