Cherry Laurel (Prunus Caroliniana)

Cherry Laurel

Features and Characteristics

Prunus caroliniana, commonly called cherry laurel, is an evergreen tree or large shrub that is native to low woods, fields and thickets from southeastern North Carolina to Florida west to Arkansas, Louisiana and Texas. It is most often seen growing 15-20′ tall but may rise in tree form to as much as 40′ tall. Glossy, lanceolate-oblong dark green leaves (to 2-4″ long) have pointed tips. Fragrant white flowers (each to 3/16″ across) bloom in dense racemes (2-3″ long) in late winter to early spring (February to April). Flowers (each to 5/16″ long) are followed by green fruits which initially turn reddish purple before ripening in fall to shiny black. Birds love the fruit.

Genus name from Latin means plum or cherry tree.

Specific epithet means from North Carolina or South Carolina.

Care and Maintenance

Best in moist but well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Established plants have good drought tolerance. Propagate by cuttings, root suckers or seed. Will self-seed in the landscape.

Cherry Laurel (Prunus Caroliniana) Requirements

Hardiness zone	7 - 10
Sun light	Full Sun To Part Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems. Leaves contain high quantities of prussic acid (cyanide) and must never be eaten. Borers can be a problem particularly with trees under stress. Watch for mites.

Uses

Specimen, hedge, windbreak or screen.

Cherry Laurel (Prunus Caroliniana) Details

Common name	Cherry Laurel
Botanical name	Prunus Caroliniana
Plant type	Broadleaf Evergreen
Family	Rosaceae
Hardiness zone	7 - 10
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Low
Flower color	White
Flowering period	February - April
Height	15 - 20 Ft.
Width	10 - 15 Ft.