Cherry Laurel (Prunus Caroliniana)

Description

• The cherry laurel tree reaches 20 to 40 feet tall at maturity. Its dense, rounded canopy grows 25 feet wide. Glossy foliage is green, oval and 2 to 4 inches long. The leaves do not change color during fall. Starting in winter, long stalks filled with clusters of white, fragrant flowers bloom. The flowers fill the tree throughout late springtime. After the flowering phase, clusters of blackish-blue fruits form, which are a food source for wildlife. All portions of the cherry laurel are toxic to humans. The cultivar Compacta has the same look and growth requirements as the larger cherry laurel, but only grows 20 feet tall.

Landscape Uses

• With the fruits being a favorite to birds, cherry laurel is suitable for use in wildlife gardens. Its dense growth habit makes it useful as a screening or privacy hedge. Plant it in mixed evergreen and deciduous gardens, where its year-round foliage adds a constant display of color throughout winter. Left untrimmed, the plant grows into a thick, large shrub. By pruning away the bottom suckers, you may train cherry laurel into a small tree. With its broad leaves and fragrant flowers, it makes a striking landscape specimen.

Growth Requirements

• The fast growing tree performs well in a variety of rich and well-drained soils. It does not perform well in soils that are too alkaline. The tree becomes chlorotic, according to Floridata, and the foliage becomes yellowish-green. To make soils more acidic, amend the planting site with organics such as compost, peat or manure. Layer the planting site with 8 inches of organics and work into the soil to a depth of approximately 1 foot. Cherry laurel tolerates sunny to partially shady environments. It is moderately tolerant to salty conditions. Once established, the tree has a high tolerance to drought conditions. For the best performance of both flowering and growth, keep the soil moist by watering regularly.

Planting and Care

• Consider cherry laurel’s mature size when choosing its permanent location in the landscape. The tree’s roots are shallow and not aggressive, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension. The dropping berries, however, can be messy. Plant the tree no deeper than it was growing in its pot. Planting trees too deep puts stress upon the tree and negatively affects its growth. To help retain soil moisture, apply a 6-inch layer of mulch around the planting site, keeping it approximately 6 inches away from the trunk. Prune freely to maintain the tree’s shape and control its size. If insects such as mites, caterpillars or tree borers become problematic, use an approved insecticide. Fungal problems such as blight, cankers and leaf spot sometimes plague cherry laurel trees. Apply an approved fungicide to control the problem. Use, mix and apply any insecticide or fungicide products following product instructions.