Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel)

How to grow Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) in NZ

Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) grows best in full sun or partial shade with fertile well drained soil. This hardy evergreen shrub adapts well to a wide range of soil conditions and performs reliably throughout many parts of New Zealand. Water regularly during establishment to encourage strong root growth and dense foliage development. Applying mulch around the base helps conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Cherry Laurel tolerates wind and urban conditions well once established. Regular trimming can be carried out to maintain shape and encourage dense compact growth for hedging and screening purposes.

Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) care tips

Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) is relatively low maintenance once established and requires only occasional care. Water during prolonged dry periods, particularly while young plants are becoming established. Mulching around the root zone helps improve soil moisture retention and supports healthy root development. Prune regularly if maintaining a formal hedge or screen, ideally during spring or summer. Feeding with a balanced fertiliser during spring can encourage vigorous foliage growth and maintain healthy colour. Monitoring for pests and diseases will help keep plants healthy and attractive year round.

Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) size, spacing, and growth rate

Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) typically grows to around 4 to 8 metres tall with a spread of approximately 3 to 5 metres if left untrimmed. Growth is moderate to fast under favourable conditions with fertile soil and adequate moisture. Plants used for hedging or screening are commonly spaced around 1 to 1.5 metres apart to achieve dense coverage more quickly. This evergreen shrub responds well to trimming and can be maintained at a smaller size if desired. Its dense foliage and vigorous growth make it ideal for privacy and shelter planting.

Landscaping uses for Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel)

Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) is widely used in landscaping for hedging, shelterbelts, privacy screening, and large evergreen plantings. The dense glossy foliage creates year round structure and effective wind protection while adding strong visual impact to the landscape. This shrub is ideal for boundary planting, urban gardens, and lifestyle properties where reliable screening is required. Prunus laurocerasus also works well as a backdrop for flowering plants and mixed shrub borders. Its adaptability and fast growth make it suitable for both formal and informal landscape designs throughout New Zealand.

Why buy Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) from The Plant Company?

The Plant Company supplies premium quality Prunus laurocerasus (Cherry Laurel) plants that are carefully grown for strong establishment and reliable performance in New Zealand gardens. Our knowledgeable team provides expert advice to help customers choose the best hedging and screening plants for their landscaping projects. We are committed to offering healthy and vigorous plants that provide long lasting beauty and practical value. As NZ’s most trusted plant nursery, The Plant Company delivers excellent customer service, quality plants, and reliable nationwide delivery that makes buying plants online simple and convenient.