Key features
Final size5m x 5m in 20 years
FoliageGreen leaves year-round (evergreen)
FlowersCup shaped white flowers in late spring/early summer
FruitOrnamental red-black berries
PositionFull sun to part shade
Description
Prunus lusitanica ‘Brenelia’ is a compact variety of Portuguese Laurel, perfect for creating privacy screens and hedges in both large and small garden spaces. This dense evergreen tree can reach an approximate height and spread of up to 5 metres. It grows conical to rounded shaped and has dense, dark green shiny foliage, with unique wavy shaped leaves from dark red stems. In late spring/early summer it produces fragrant cup shaped white flowers, followed by red to black berries which attract pollinators, contributing to the health and biodiversity of your garden. Prunus lusitanica ‘Brenelia’ is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a versatile and visually appealing plant.
The Brenelia variety of Portuguese Laurel thrives in moist but well drained soil and in positions with full sun or partially shaded.
AKA Portuguese Laurel ‘Brenelia’, Cherry Bay, Portuguese Cherry Laurel
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.
