1 named cultivar

‘Compacta’Dwarf Carolina Laurel Cherry

treeN. America Native

Carolina Cherry-laurel

Prunus caroliniana

The Story

Plant Bio

A fast-growing, dense, broadleaf evergreen native to the southeastern U.S., often used as a screening plant or small tree.

Features fragrant white flower racemes in late winter or early spring and glossy, dark green leaves that release a cherry or almond-like scent when crushed.

Uses & Benefits:

Valued for its glossy, dark evergreen leaves that provide a lush backdrop year-round. The fragrant white flowers are a welcome sight in late winter, and the smooth gray bark is attractive.

Its rapid growth rate and dense foliage make it one of the most popular choices for creating quick privacy screens and tall hedges in the southern United States.

The early flowers provide an important nectar source for bees and other pollinators. The small black fruits are consumed by birds, which aids in seed dispersal.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

360"

Width

240"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Low once established

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Medium (30-50 years)

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

All parts, especially leaves and seeds, are highly toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Plant in a well-drained location in sun or part shade.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Set the plant at the same depth it was growing in the container.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Provide regular water until it is well-established.
Prune as needed after the spring bloom to control size.

Pro Tip

Be aware of its tendency to self-seed prolifically, which can create a weed problem in garden beds if not managed.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune regularly if a formal hedge is desired.
Use as a tough, fast-growing screen in difficult areas.
Plant in well-drained soil to avoid root problems.
Remove unwanted seedlings each spring.

Don't

Do not plant where its toxic leaves could be ingested by livestock.
Avoid planting near sewer lines due to its aggressive roots.
Do not plant in poorly drained or constantly wet soil.
Do not hesitate to prune hard to control its size.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Fast-growing evergreen privacy screenFormal clipped hedgeSmall native specimen tree

Companion Plants

Magnolia grandiflora Ilex vomitoria Sabal palmetto Myrica cerifera Quercus virginiana

Good to Know

Common Questions

Carolina Cherry-laurel questions

What zones can Carolina Cherry-laurel grow in?

Carolina Cherry-laurel is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Carolina Cherry-laurel deer resistant?

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

When does Carolina Cherry-laurel bloom?

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

Does Carolina Cherry-laurel need full sun?

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

Is Carolina Cherry-laurel drought tolerant?

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