Cherry laurel, or Prunus laurocerasus rotundifolia, is a shrub that grows year after year and comes from southern Europe and southwest Asia. It has become a popular landscaping plant in many temperate areas thanks to its glossy green leaves and quick growth. This complete guide tells you everything you need to know about cherry laurel rotundifolia, including how to grow it, take care of it, and prune it.
Overview of Cherry Laurel Rotundifolia
Cherry laurel rotundifolia is a cultivar of the species Prunus laurocerasus, which is commonly known as cherry laurel or English laurel. It is an upright, bushy shrub with lustrous, dark green oval leaves. The leaves are larger and more rounded compared to other Prunus laurocerasus varieties, giving rise to its cultivar name “rotundifolia” which means round-leaved.
Cherry laurel rotundifolia has small white flowers on straight spikes in the spring. The flowers smell bad but bees and other pollinating insects like them. After these come cherry-like red fruits that turn black when they’re ready. Birds eagerly devour the fruits and disperse the seeds.
A mature cherry laurel rotundifolia can reach 5-8 meters in height with a spread of 2.5-4 meters. However, regular pruning can contain its size. This fast growing evergreen is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and tolerates a variety of soil types and light conditions.
Growing Conditions for Cherry Laurel Rotundifolia
Cherry laurel rotundifolia is adaptable to various sites but prefers moist well-drained soil. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade, although it flowers and fruits more prolifically in sunnier locations. Established plants have moderate drought tolerance.
This bush does well in USDA plant hardiness zones 7 through 10. It can survive light freezes but dislikes extremely cold winters. Sheltered, coastal areas provide an ideal microclimate. Cherry laurel rotundifolia also does well in pots that are watered regularly.
Propagating and Planting Cherry Laurel Rotundifolia
You can grow cherry laurel rotundifolia from seeds, semi-hardwood cuttings, suckers, or by layering. Seeds need to be stratified in cold air, but cuttings root best when they are treated with a rooting hormone and kept in a humid environment.
For in-ground planting, dig a hole larger than the root ball and backfill with native soil. Space multiple plants 1-1.5 meters apart for a hedge. Maintain even soil moisture while plants establish. Apply organic mulch around bases to retain water and reduce weeds.
Pruning and Maintenance of Cherry Laurel Rotundifolia
Left unpruned, cherry laurel rotundifolia can become overly large and unruly. For best results, prune annually in spring after flowering. Trim back branch tips and shape as needed to contain size. Avoid shearing, which creates a thin exterior and leggy interior growth.
Rake up fallen leaves to discourage pests and diseases. Water during droughts, especially the first few years. Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if plants look stressed. Watch for common issues like leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot.
Uses in Landscaping and Gardens
Cherry laurel rotundifolia makes an attractive evergreen hedge, screen, or backdrop Its glossy foliage provides year-round structure and contrasts nicely with colorful perennials and shrubs. Group multiple plants together for mass plantings or specimen displays
Also plant cherry laurel as a shade-providing tree in woodland gardens or along foundations. The fruits attract birds while the flowers sustain pollinators. Despite the smell cherry laurel rotundifolia adds multi-season interest to landscapes in suitable climates.
Caution Advised with Cherry Laurel Rotundifolia
While an asset in many gardens, cherry laurel does come with some cautions. All parts of the plant contain cyanide-producing compounds that can cause toxicity if ingested, especially the leaves and seeds. Take care when pruning and keep away from children and pets.
Cherry laurel’s fast growth and suckering tendencies enable it to spread aggressively outside of cultivation. Avoid planting near natural areas where it could displace native vegetation. Always remove spent flowers to curb self-seeding.
With some prudent care, cherry laurel prunus laurocerasus rotundifolia can be a rewarding, low-maintenance addition to gardens and landscapes. Its handsome form and versatility make it a go-to choice for hedges, screens, and mass plantings.
