Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Prunus laurocerasus or Cherry laurel

The genus Prunus, family Rosaceae, comprises 200 species of trees and shrubs native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are: Prunus laurocerasus, Prunus incisa, Prunus dulcis, Prunus cerasifera, Prunus avium, Prunus domestica, Prunus mahaleb, Prunus lusitanica, Prunus spinosa, Prunus persica, Prunus armeniaca, Prunus serrulata, Prunus cerasus.

Common names: Common laurel, Cherry laurel, English laurel. This species is native to Anatolia, Asia.

They are compact compact trees or shrubs that reach 5 meters (16.4 feet) in height. They have lustrous leathery leaves of lanceolate oval shape and 10 cm (3.93") in length. The scented white flowers appear in erect pyramidal clusters. They bloom in spring and can bloom again in fall. They produce black fruits similar to cherries but in clusters.

These fast-growing plants are used to form hedges, windbreaks, shrub groups, as isolated specimens, in undergrowths, and in pots for terraces.

Prunus laurocerasus grow in semi-shade and shade exposures. If the summer is not very hot they can be located in full sun. They resist frost well.

The soil must be deep, contain organic matter and have the ability to retain moisture.

Water regularly, without flooding, so that the soil is always moist; they do not tolerate drought.

Fertilize in spring with compost or manure.

Prune lightly in late winter to keep it compact.

They are quite resistant to pests and diseases but sensitive to overwatering and drought.

They are propagated from seeds sown in spring or by semi-woody cuttings in summer.

Images of the shrub Prunus laurocerasus or Cherry laurel