shrub

Volcano Cherry Laurel

Prunus laurocerasus 'Volcano'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Southeastern Europe and Southwestern Asia

Toxicity

Leaves and seeds are toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

Prunus laurocerasus, or Cherry Laurel, is a dense, broadleaf evergreen shrub known for its large, glossy dark green leaves and fragrant spring flowers. 'Volcano' is a unique, compact cultivar with a mounding habit. Its new growth emerges in striking shades of coppery-orange and red, creating a fiery effect before maturing to green.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The main ornamental feature is the spectacular, multi-toned new growth that provides a long season of color. Its compact, mounding form and glossy evergreen leaves offer year-round structure.

Its dense habit and moderate size make it an excellent choice for a low-maintenance, informal hedge or foundation planting. It is highly tolerant of pruning, urban pollution, and shade.

The fragrant spring flowers are a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators. The small, dark fruits that follow are eaten by birds, which help distribute seeds.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with well-drained soil; it tolerates sun or shade.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the plant's container.
Place the plant so its root crown is level with the ground.
Backfill with soil and water deeply to settle.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish.
Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

For the most vibrant new growth color, plant in a location that receives at least a half-day of sun.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide good drainage; laurels hate 'wet feet'.
Prune after the spring bloom to maintain size.
Water deeply during extended periods of drought.
Allow ample space for its mature size to avoid overcrowding.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged or boggy soil.
Avoid shearing into a tight, formal shape, which hides the new growth.
Don't forget its toxicity; avoid planting near livestock.
Don't allow mulch to pile up against the stems.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful low hedge or borderEye-catching foundation plantingDurable mass planting for year-round interest

Companion Plants

Buxus sempervirens Hosta Hydrangea macrophylla Ilex crenata Viburnum davidii

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Volcano Cherry Laurel questions

What zones can Volcano Cherry Laurel grow in?

Volcano 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 Volcano Cherry Laurel deer resistant?

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

When does Volcano Cherry Laurel bloom?

Volcano 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 Volcano Cherry Laurel need full sun?

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

Is Volcano Cherry Laurel drought tolerant?

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