Prunus lusitanica – Portuguese laurel

Prunus lusitanica, or Portuguese laurel, is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to southwestern Europe and North Africa. It is valued for its dense, dark green foliage and versatility in landscapes. It can grow up to 15 meters (50 feet) tall but is most commonly pruned to maintain a shorter height. Prunus lusitanica is a robust, versatile plant that adds year-round interest and functionality.

Characteristics:

• Leaves: Glossy, dark green, lanceolate leaves, 7-12 cm long and 2-4 cm wide, with finely serrated edges.
• Flowers: Clusters of small, fragrant white flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators.
• Fruit: Small, dark purple to black drupes follow the flowering period; mildly toxic to humans but enjoyed by birds.
• Bark: Smooth and dark brown, becoming fissured with age.
• Growth Habit: Dense, upright growth, ideal for hedges and screens.

Growing Conditions:

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils but adapts to various types, including clay and sandy soils.
• Light: Best in full sun to partial shade.
• Water: Drought-tolerant once established but needs regular watering initially and during dry periods.

Uses:

• Hedges and Screens: Ideal for privacy hedges and noise barriers.
• Ornamental: Attractive foliage and flowers make it popular in gardens and parks.
• Wildlife: Provides food for pollinators and birds.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Regular pruning maintains shape and encourages bushier growth; best done in late winter or early spring.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant but can be affected by scale insects, aphids, and leaf spot diseases.