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Prunus laurocerasus 'English Laurel' is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub known for its glossy green foliage and dense growth habit. It is widely used for hedging, privacy screens, and foundation plantings due to its resilience and year-round appeal.
Description:
- Dimensions: Grows to a height of 10-15 feet with a spread of 8-12 feet. Can be pruned to maintain a smaller size or shaped into a hedge.
- Sun Exposure: Thrives in full sun to part sun, tolerating a range of light conditions.
- Water Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but is drought-tolerant once established. Regular watering helps maintain lush growth.
- Hardiness Zones: Hardy in Zones 6-9. Adaptable to various climates and resistant to cold.
- Bloom Time: Produces small, fragrant white flowers in spring, followed by small black berries in late summer, which attract birds.
- Foliage: Features large, leathery, dark green leaves that provide dense coverage year-round.
How to Plant:
- Location: Ideal for hedges, privacy screens, and foundation plantings. Suitable for formal or naturalistic landscapes.
- Soil Preparation: Prefers well-draining, fertile soil but adapts to a variety of soil types, including clay.
- Planting: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and set the plant at soil level. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly.
- Spacing: Space plants 5-10 feet apart for a natural look or 2-4 feet apart for a dense hedge.
- Watering: Water deeply after planting and maintain consistent moisture during establishment. Once mature, it is relatively low-maintenance.
Fun Fact:
English Laurel is a popular choice for privacy screens due to its fast growth and dense foliage. It can be easily pruned into formal hedges or left to grow naturally for a lush, green backdrop in gardens and landscapes.