<
>
PRUNUS lusitanica
Commonly known as Portugal laurel
LAURELS
Long racemes of scented white flowers
Plant Details
-
Floweringlocal_floristJanlocal_floristFeblocal_floristMarlocal_floristAprlocal_floristMaylocal_floristJunlocal_floristJullocal_floristAuglocal_floristSeplocal_floristOctlocal_floristNovlocal_floristDec
-
BerriesThese plants have berries.
-
Good to knowWildlife plant. Flowers for bees and other insects. Berries for birds
-
Pests & DiseasesGenerally trouble-free
-
Place of originSouthwestern Europe
-
Resistant to honey fungusThese plants have little or few problems with honey fungus.
-
EvergreenGlossy, ovate to elliptic, dark- green, red-stalked leaves to 12cm (5in) long.
-
White
-
Cup-shaped
-
Fully hardy
-
Serrulate
-
Elliptic
-
Ovate
-
Height15m (49ft)
-
Spread15m (49ft)
-
HedgeIdeal for hedging
-
Tall ShrubDense, bushy shrub. Produces flowers 1.5cm (½in) across in slender ascending, spreading or pendent racemes to 25cm (10in) long in early summer followed by ovoid, cherry-like red fruit 1cm (½in) across, ripening to black.
-
Hardy - cold winterHardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F)
-
Scented flowers
-
harmful if eatenPeople and pets, i.e. cats, dogs, rabbits, rodents
-
Rabbit Resistant
-
Mature Size15m (49ft)
15m (49ft)
Planting Tips and Care Advice
-
Pruning group
Pruning group 5Suitable for: Evergreen shrubs that require minimal pruning.
Action: Trim or lightly cut back shoots that spoil symmetry. Deadhead regularly.
When: Annually after flowering.
-
Soil Conditions
Fertile moist well-drained soilModerately fertile.
-
Sun Requirements
Full sunPartial shade
Cold weather damage to evergreen plants
Prunus / Laurel - Growing Guide