Prunus laurocerasus (syn.'Magnoliifolia') 'LATIFOLIA' cherry laurel, common laurel, English laurel
size/type
taller shrub,taller shrub
usual height
2-4m
leaves
evergreen broadleaf
colour of leaves
flowers
less showy but noticeable
colour of flowers
blooming time
May-May
location
semi-shade to shade
soil type
acidic (peaty) to neutral
soil moisture requirements
evenly moist (dislikes drought)
USDA zone (lowest)
7 (down to -23°C)
winter protection
for zone 5+6
for zone 7
categorized
We are specialists in evergreen plants and offer the widest possible range of hardy, quality plants. English (cherry) laurel is probably the most common and reliable species.
Description of the plant:
The cultivar “Latifolia” is undoubtedly the most spectacular of all laurels as far as the leaf size. The leaves can grow up to 25 cm long and 10 cm wide, are deep green and very glossy. The branches tend to spread wide to sides rather than growing upwards, which gives the impression of a flowing, almost pendulum shrub. This feature is not only used for fast growing hedges but for using in rest gardens, where this laurel creates a relaxed atmosphere. Under good conditions it can soon sprawl to 3 m wide, or more. Flowers are white and small, clustered in upright, fragrant racemes. Fruits are black berries, poisonous. Its origin is not clear but eastern Europe is often mentioned. It prefers a semi-shaded location where roots will remain cool soil. That has to be acidic, permeable, rich in humus and always moist. In winter provide extra watering in frost-free periods.