Key features
Final size4m-8m x 4m-8m in 20 years
FoliageDark green leaves year-round (evergreen)
FlowersWhite flowered upright spikes in spring
PositionFull sun to full shade, including exposed sites
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Prunus laurocerasus ‘Caucasica’ is an attractive, bushy and dense evergreen shrub perfect grown as a hedge or natural screening. It can grow to reach an approximate height and spread of 8m X 8m in maturity. This shrub displays large and glossy dark green leaves from its upright branches and is a great pollinator in spring producing upright spikes covered in fragrant white flowers. These are followed in autumn by clusters of large red/black berries loved by birds and wildlife.
This Cherry Laurel grows well in full shade, full sun or partially shaded making it suitable for most positions in the garden, as well as being hardy to exposure. This shrub can also be pruned to maintain a desired shape if required.
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Trees and shrubs require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
