Cherry Laurel Hedge (Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia')

Cherry Laurel Hedge Plant Description

Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' (Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia') is a vigorous evergreen shrub with an upright, bushy habit and large, glossy dark green leaves. The dense foliage gives the plant a full appearance and makes it well suited to creating substantial hedges, privacy screens and garden boundaries.

In mid to late spring, Cherry Laurel produces small, fragrant white flowers in upright spikes. These are followed by cherry-like fruits that appear red before ripening to black, adding further seasonal interest to the hedge.

One of the main advantages of Cherry Laurel is its evergreen foliage, which provides coverage throughout the year. Its vigorous growth also allows a hedge to gain height relatively quickly, while regular pruning can be used to keep it within the size and shape required.

Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' is adaptable to a range of growing conditions and can be planted in full sun or partial shade. It grows in chalk, clay, loam and sandy soils, provided the ground is well drained or remains suitably moist without becoming waterlogged.

For a healthy, dense hedge, water newly planted Cherry Laurel regularly while it establishes, particularly during dry periods. Once established, its combination of evergreen foliage, vigorous growth and tolerance of different conditions makes it a practical choice for long-term hedging and screening.

Pruning Advice

Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' responds well to regular pruning and can be trimmed to maintain the height and shape required for a formal hedge. Its vigorous growth means that established plants may need trimming more than once a year if you want to keep the hedge within a particular size.

For established hedges, the main pruning can be carried out in late spring or early summer. Remove any shoots that have grown beyond the desired outline and trim the sides and top to create an even shape.

Where individual branches have become too large or unwanted growth needs removing, use secateurs or loppers to make clean cuts back to a suitable branch or main stem.

This is often preferable to repeatedly cutting through large leaves, which can leave a less tidy appearance.

Cherry Laurel can tolerate harder pruning when necessary, particularly when an established hedge has become overgrown.

However, avoid removing excessive amounts of growth at once where possible, as a gradual reduction can help the plant recover more easily.

Check the hedge carefully for active bird nests before pruning and delay cutting if necessary.

Wear suitable gloves when handling the foliage and use clean, sharp pruning tools to reduce the risk of damaging the plant.

Further Information

Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' is a useful choice when you want a substantial evergreen hedge that provides privacy and structure throughout the year.

Its dense foliage remains in place during winter, making it well suited to garden boundaries and screening where year-round coverage is required.

The plant is adaptable and can be grown in full sun or partial shade, with the ability to tolerate exposed or sheltered positions.

It grows in a range of soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand, provided the soil is well drained or remains suitably moist without becoming waterlogged.

Cherry Laurel hedging can be maintained at a lower height through regular trimming, while plants that are allowed to grow more freely can develop into much taller screening.

This makes 'Rotundifolia' suitable for both managed garden hedges and areas where greater height is required.

Although Cherry Laurel is generally straightforward to establish, newly planted hedges should be watered regularly during dry periods while the roots develop.

Once established, routine pruning is the main maintenance required to keep the hedge within the desired height and shape.

The spring flowers provide additional seasonal interest, with the subsequent fruits changing from red to black as they mature.

The seed kernels are harmful if eaten, so appropriate care should be taken when handling the plant, particularly around children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' suitable for hedging?

Yes. Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' has a vigorous, bushy and upright growth habit that makes it well suited to hedging and screening. Its evergreen foliage provides year-round coverage, making it particularly useful for privacy and garden boundaries.

Is Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' evergreen?

Yes. Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' is an evergreen shrub, so it retains its glossy green foliage throughout the year and provides continuous coverage as a hedge.

How fast does Cherry Laurel grow?

Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' has a fast growth rate of approximately 30–60cm per year in suitable conditions. Regular pruning can be used to control its growth and maintain the required hedge size.

How tall does Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' grow?

Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' can be maintained at approximately 1–5m as a hedge with regular pruning. If allowed to grow naturally, it can reach approximately 4–8m.

Can Cherry Laurel grow in shade?

Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' grows well in full sun or partial shade. It is adaptable to different positions, although it is important to provide suitable soil conditions and avoid poorly drained ground.

When should Cherry Laurel be pruned?

Established Cherry Laurel hedges are generally pruned in late spring or early summer. Regular trimming helps maintain the desired height and shape, while overgrown plants can tolerate harder pruning when necessary.

Is Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia' suitable for privacy screening?

Yes. Its dense evergreen foliage makes it suitable for privacy screening as well as garden boundaries. Its vigorous growth also allows it to develop substantial height when given enough space.

Are Cherry Laurel leaves and berries poisonous?

The seed kernels are harmful if eaten, and the plant is considered harmful if eaten by dogs, rabbits and rodents. Care should therefore be taken when handling the plant and when planting in gardens where children or pets may come into contact with it.

Delivery & Returns

We offer free delivery within 50 miles of our nursery, making it easy to have your Cherry Laurel hedge plants delivered directly to your property within our local delivery area.

Delivery outside the 50-mile area may be available depending on your location and order. If you are unsure whether your address falls within the 50-mile area, please contact us before ordering.

All plants are carefully prepared for delivery and are covered by our 12-month plant guarantee, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.