Daniel Iseli
Cherry Laurel Plant Care
Prunus laurocerasus L.
Prunus laurocerasus, commonly known as cherry laurel or English laurel, is an evergreen shrub with an upright and spreading growth habit. It features glossy dark green leaves and produces small white flowers in spring. This plant is popular for its attractive foliage and can be used as a hedge or screen in gardens.
Every 7–14 days
Full sun
30–80°F
40–60%
What Is the Cherry Laurel?
Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) belongs to the Rosaceae family within the Prunus genus. Cherry Laurel is native to Southeastern Europe, southwestern Asia. Cherry Laurel is also known as English Laurel, Common Laurel, Bay Laurel.
Cherry Laurel displays an upright, spreading growth habit, reaching up to 15 inches tall with a spread of approximately 10 inches. Cherry Laurel produces small, fragrant, white or cream-colored blossom, arranged in erect racemes, that blooms in late spring to early summer..
Leaf size: approximately 5.9 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Cherry Laurel?
Prunus laurocerasus requires watering every 7–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–14 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Cherry Laurel Need?
Cherry Laurel thrives in full sun light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Cherry Laurel in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Cherry Laurel Prefer?
Prunus laurocerasus grows best at temperatures between 30°F and 80°F. Cherry Laurel prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
30–80°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Cherry Laurel?
Well-draining soil mix. Good drainage is essential for Cherry Laurel to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Cherry Laurel?
Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Cherry Laurel?
Cherry Laurel can be propagated through propagate through semi-hardwood cuttings or by seed. Similar propagation techniques also apply to cherry blossom tree plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 1 month
During the growing season
Is the Cherry Laurel Toxic to Pets and Children?
Toxic to Pets & Children
Toxic to humans and animals such as dogs and cats. Contains cyanogenic glycosides and amygdalin in fruits.
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Cherry Laurel?
Cherry Laurel is susceptible to aphids, scale insects, caterpillars. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Cherry Laurel Need?
Cherry Laurel grows outdoors in USDA Zone 6a – 9b. Native to Southeastern Europe, southwestern Asia, Cherry Laurel is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Cherry Laurel as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 6a – 9b
Keep exploring plants
Cherry Laurel is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Prunus genus — compare its care with other Prunus species on PlantoScan.
Cherry Laurel thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.
More Prunus Species
Other Prunus species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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