Prunus lusitanica – Elegant, Evergreen Structure for Hedges & Screens

Prunus lusitanica, commonly known as Portuguese Laurel, is a refined evergreen shrub or small tree renowned for its glossy, dark green leaves and deep red stems. Ideal for hedging, screening, or standalone structure, it brings year-round interest and a touch of formality to any garden.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring: New foliage emerges glossy and rich; panicles of small, fragrant white flowers begin to appear.

• Summer: Maintains its dense, dark green foliage while flowers may give way to small red fruits.

• Autumn: Leaves stay vibrant and evergreen; berries mature to black, attracting birds.

• Winter: Offers excellent evergreen coverage, providing structure and privacy throughout the colder months.

Key Features

• Evergreen elegance – Dense, glossy leaves stay green all year, offering consistent coverage.

• Fragrant white flowers – Upright clusters of small blooms attract pollinators in late spring and early summer.

• Red stems and black fruits – Provide subtle seasonal colour contrast.

• Ideal for hedging – Naturally dense habit makes it perfect for formal or informal hedges and screens.

• Tolerant and tough – Withstands pruning, urban pollution, wind, and drought once established.

Perfect For

• Hedging and screening – Provides an excellent evergreen barrier for privacy or wind protection.

• Formal gardens – Can be shaped into neat forms or left to grow more naturally.

• Urban and roadside planting – Tough and tolerant of city conditions and pollution.

• Large containers – Works well in planters for terraces or patios when kept trimmed.

Growing Tips

• Sun/Position: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.

• Soil: Adapts well to most well-drained soils, including clay and chalk.

• Hardiness: Fully hardy across the UK, withstanding frost and exposed positions.

• Care: Clip annually in late summer to maintain a neat hedge or shape; water regularly during the first season.

Looks Great With

• Buxus or Yew – For layered evergreen structure in formal designs.

• Flowering shrubs – Such as Viburnum or Hydrangea for contrast in texture and colour.

• Grasses and perennials – Combine with ornamental grasses or summer-flowering perennials for a softer look.

• Topiary – Pair with clipped shapes like Euonymus or Taxus for architectural balance.

Prunus lusitanica is a smart, versatile evergreen that combines strength, beauty, and structure. Whether you’re planting a dense hedge, creating a privacy screen, or adding year-round greenery, it’s a reliable, low-maintenance choice for British gardens.

Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants

Pros:

1. Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
2. Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.

Cons:

1. Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
2. Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).

Preparation for Planting:

1. Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
2. Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.

Planting Process:

1. Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
2. Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
3. Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
4. Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.

Possibility of Losses:

• Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
• Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.

Main Causes of Failure:

1. Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
2. Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
3. Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
4. Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.

Tips for Success:

1. Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
2. Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.

By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.

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Does the height include the pot?

No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description

How long does delivery take?

Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.

Where will you leave my plants?

We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.