Cherry laurel

Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae, native to regions in southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia. It is commonly known as the English laurel or common laurel. This evergreen shrub or small tree is widely cultivated for its attractive foliage and is often used in landscaping and hedging.

Description

Cherry laurel is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5-15 meters tall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, measuring 10-25 cm long and 4-8 cm wide. The plant produces small, white, fragrant flowers in racemes that are 8-15 cm long. The flowers bloom in late spring and are followed by small, cherry-like, black or purple drupes.

Habitat and Distribution

Cherry laurel is native to regions in southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia, including the Balkans, Turkey, and the Caucasus. It has been widely introduced and naturalized in other parts of the world, including Western Europe and North America.

Cultivation and Uses

Cherry laurel is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. It is commonly used in gardens and parks as a hedge or screen plant due to its dense foliage and rapid growth. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. It thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Toxicity

All parts of the cherry laurel plant contain toxic compounds, including cyanogenic glycosides, which can release hydrogen cyanide when the plant material is damaged. Ingestion of the plant can be harmful to humans and animals.

Related Species

Cherry laurel is closely related to other species in the genus Prunus, including:

• Prunus avium (wild cherry)
• Prunus cerasus (sour cherry)
• Prunus domestica (plum)

Related Pages

• Rosaceae
• Prunus
• Evergreen plant
• Hedge