Prunus lusitanica, also known as Portuguese laurel or Portugal laurel, is a large, evergreen shrub or small tree. It has long, shiny, dark green leaves on dark red stems. Small, white flowers are borne on long racemes in early summer, popular with bees and other pollinators. These are followed by small red-purple fruits, which are attractive to birds. Prunus lusitanica is often grown as a dense, evergreen hedge.
Prunus lusitanica is a low maintenance, drought-tolerant plant, suitable for growing in a range of soils and situations – ideally, grow it in moist but well-drained soil, in sun or partial shade, sheltered from cold winds. Prune established plants in late spring or early summer to keep them looking tidy or to keep them to a certain size.
Buy and plant Prunus lusitanica as a pot-grown plant all year round, or as bare-root plants during the dormant season (November to March). It grows at a rate of between 30cm-50cm a year. The foliage and berries are harmful if ingested.
