portuguese cherry laurel
Portuguese cherry laurel (Prunus lusitanica) is one of the most versatile and attractive evergreen shrubs or small trees you can include in your New Zealand garden. Renowned for its glossy, deep green leaves and dense growth, Portuguese cherry laurel is highly valued for hedging, screening, or as a standalone feature. It is especially popular with gardeners seeking a robust, low-maintenance alternative to Griselinia or English laurel. Clusters of scented, creamy white flowers appear in late spring or early summer, followed by small red berries that mature to purple-black, attracting birds and adding seasonal interest. With its adaptability to trimming and resilience to common pests, Portuguese cherry laurel thrives in a range of environments – from coastal gardens exposed to wind, right through to sheltered city courtyards.
Prunus lusitanica
Prunus lusitanica, commonly known as the Portuguese Laurel, is a large shrub that is widely grown across the world. It features dark red stems that bear lush, dense, and dark green leaves. The white flowers are small and fragrant, followed by small, dark purple berries. It typically grows to 5 m tall and 4 m wide and can be trimmed as necessary. Prunus lusitanica is an excellent plant for a large garden. It is commonly used as a backdrop for smaller plants, planted for screening and shelter, used for topiary, or included in a “white” garden. Landscape designers favour Portuguese Laurels for their elegance and versatility.
From $29.63
- Suited to regions:
Subtropical, Temperate - Plant type:
Shrubs - Height:
5.00 m - Spread:
4.00 m - Flowering time:
Summer - Garden uses:
Hedging, Pool areas, Screening, Topiary - Garden styles:
Backyard, City & Courtyard, Cottage, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, White
