Carolina Cherry Laurel (Prunus caroliniana)

Carolina Cherry Laurel
Scientific Name: Prunus caroliniana Ait.
Family: Rosaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 7-24, 26-31
USDA: 7b-10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 10°F (-12°C)
Heat Tolerance: Resistant to heat in Phoenix in summer
Sun Exposure: Full to part sun
Origin: North Carolina to Texas, USA
Growth Habits: Shrub or tree, 20 to 40 feet (6-12 m), 15 to 20 feet spread (4.5-6 m); lustrous dark green leaves, 2 to 3 inches long (5-7.5 cm)
Watering Needs: Moderate water, needs good drainage, tends to become chlorotic in alkaline soils
Propagation: Cuttings, seeds for the species, also self-sows

'Compacta' is a cultivar with smaller leaves and smaller size, 8 to 10 feet tall (2.4-3 m), 6 to 8 feet wide (1.8-2.4 m).
'Bright 'n Tight' is similar to Compacta, but with very shiny leaves, 8 to 10 feet tall (2.4-3 m), 6 to 8 feet wide (1.8-2.4 m).

The foliage of the cherry laurel is poisonous to live stock.

Cultural Practices:
Can be sheared to control size and shape.

Blooming Habits:
Small fragrant white flowers in late winter or spring.

Fruiting Habits:
Cherry-like black fruit, up to 0.5 inches in diameter (1.2 cm), eaten by wildlife but often toxic to humans.

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