Prunus lusitanica ‘Myrtifolia’ – Elegant Evergreen Standard Tree
Prunus lusitanica ‘Myrtifolia’, commonly known as the Portuguese Laurel, is a refined evergreen tree prized for its neat habit, glossy foliage, and year-round structure. Grafted as a standard tree with a clear stem and rounded head, this elegant form of Portuguese Laurel is ideal for adding instant architectural impact and evergreen presence to gardens, patios, and formal landscapes.
With its rich, dark green leaves, reddish young stems, and compact growth, Myrtifolia brings a sophisticated, Mediterranean charm to both traditional and contemporary spaces. It’s an excellent choice for avenues, entrances, formal garden designs, or as a feature tree in large containers.
Why Choose Prunus lusitanica ‘Myrtifolia’ Standard Trees?
Evergreen Elegance All Year
Dense, glossy, myrtle-like leaves remain vibrant throughout the seasons, providing reliable structure and colour even in winter.
Refined Flowering Interest
In early summer, clusters of small, fragrant white flowers appear, followed by ornamental red berries that mature to deep purple-black, adding subtle seasonal interest.
Formal Style & Structure
The standard form (140–150 cm clear stem) with a neatly shaped crown brings instant height, structure, and sophistication to patios, borders, or avenue plantings.
Tough, Hardy & Low Maintenance
Thrives in a range of soils, tolerates sun or partial shade, and withstands pruning. Once established, it’s easy to care for and highly resilient.
Ideal Size for Gardens & Landscapes
At 140–150 cm stem height, it’s perfectly proportioned for adding vertical structure without overwhelming smaller spaces.
How to Grow Prunus lusitanica ‘Myrtifolia’
Position:
Prefers full sun or partial shade. Ideal for sheltered positions but tolerant of wind once established.
Soil:
Grows well in most well-drained soils, including clay, loam, and chalk. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Watering:
Water regularly during the first growing season. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and low-maintenance.
Pruning:
Lightly trim once a year after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth.
Growth Habit:
Upright, bushy evergreen with a naturally rounded canopy. Mature height typically reaches 3–4 m if unpruned, but can easily be kept smaller.
Hardiness:
Fully hardy in UK climates and tolerant of urban pollution, making it suitable for both rural gardens and city landscapes.
Design Ideas
Flank gateways or pathways with a pair of standard trees for a formal, balanced look.
Use as a feature tree in a courtyard or patio container for year-round interest.
Plant in rows for a sophisticated avenue or to frame entrances and garden vistas.
Combine with clipped box, lavender, or ornamental grasses for a classic Mediterranean aesthetic.
Final Thought
With its evergreen beauty, refined form, and year-round appeal, Prunus lusitanica ‘Myrtifolia’ standard tree is a superb choice for adding structure, elegance, and lasting interest to any garden design. Whether as a pair by an entrance, a striking feature in a container, or part of a formal landscape scheme, this timeless tree elevates outdoor spaces with effortless sophistication.
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.
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