PSC 2620: Woody Trees and ShrubCourse HomeWeek 9

Prunus laurocerasus - English Laurel

Plant Viewer
Laurel is a medium to large shrub and is popular for use as hedges. The 2 inch long leaf of the laurel is oblong and glossy green in color and has a smooth margin. They are arranged alternately on the stem.
The fragrant, white flowers form in racemes during the spring. The small and inconspicuous fruit forms during the summer.

Plant Description

Prunus laurocerasus or English Laurel, is a medium to large evergreen shrub. It is borderline for our climate and will only survive in areas with warm microclimates during the winter. It forms a broad shrub with a dense branching habit. It is tolerant of many different soil conditions but performs best in moist soils with plenty of organic matter. In our climate it performs best when planted in full to partial shade.

The 2 inch long leaves are oblong, glossy green color and arranged alternately on the stem. The leaf is thick and waxy feeling. The margin varies from being unevenly serrated to entire. The central vein is prominent on the leaf.

In the spring, small (1/4 inch diameter) white flowers appear in racemes on the plant in large quantities. They are extremely fragrant, and many people find the odor to be unpleasant. Small and rounded purple drupe fruit forms during the summer, but is not visible except on close inspection of the plant.

Landscape Use

Use as a hedge, foundation planting or in other mass plantings. It should be planted on the north or east side of buildings in our climate, or in some other shaded and protected location.

Points of Interest

The soil needs to be well-drained or the plant will suffer from sever root rot. The leaf is a favored snack of many insects. The most problematic condition for English Laurel in our climate is the winter sun, which will burn the leaves and cause serious die back.

Notable Cultivars

Otto Luyken Otto Luyken - This small variety has a compact habit and good rounded form. The leaves are smaller (4 inches long) than on the regular species. Grows 4 feet high and wide.