Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’

Cherry Laurel – Fast-Growing, Dense Evergreen Hedging

Prunus laurocerasus ‘Rotundifolia’, commonly known as Cherry Laurel, is a vigorous, hardy evergreen shrub prized for its large, rounded green leaves and fast growth, making it a favourite for creating dense, year-round privacy hedges. Its bold foliage provides a glossy, lush backdrop in all seasons, while its tolerance of pruning, pollution, and shade makes it exceptionally versatile for a wide range of garden settings.

In spring, this laurel produces upright clusters of fragrant white flowers, followed by red berries that mature to black. It’s both ornamental and practical—an ideal solution for those seeking instant screening or a smart, formal boundary.

Seasonal Interest & Growth

Spring:

• New foliage emerges in a fresh, bright green tone.

• Upright white flower spikes appear on mature, untrimmed plants.

Summer:

• Leaves deepen in colour, maintaining a full and glossy canopy.

• Flowers give way to red-black berries, attractive to birds.

Autumn & Winter:

• Maintains its dense evergreen structure and privacy year-round.

• Resistant to frost and wind when established.

Structure & Form

• Height: Up to 5 m (pruned to desired height)

• Spread: 3–4 m

• Growth Rate: Fast – up to 60 cm per year

• Habit: Upright, bushy, dense foliage cover

• Foliage: Large, leathery, glossy green leaves

• Flowers/Berries: White flower spikes (spring); small red-black berries (autumn)

Growing Conditions & Care

• Position: Sun or full shade – very tolerant

• Soil: Any well-drained soil, including clay and chalk

• Hardiness: RHS H5 – Hardy to –15 °C

• Pruning:

  • Best trimmed in late spring or early autumn

  • Can be cut hard to rejuvenate if needed

• Feeding: Mulch or general-purpose feed in spring for lush growth

• Watering: Regularly until established; drought tolerant afterward

Why Choose ‘Rotundifolia’ Cherry Laurel?

• Excellent for screening and privacy – fast, thick coverage

• Low maintenance – tolerates heavy pruning and urban conditions

• All-year foliage – evergreen, glossy leaves for winter structure

• Wildlife-friendly – provides shelter and berries for birds

• Versatile – works as hedging, backdrop, or shaped form

Recommended Planting Distances

• Hedging:

  • For instant effect: 2 plants per metre (50 cm apart)

  • For slower fill-in: 1 plant per metre

• Spacing from boundaries: At least 45–60 cm from fences or walls

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.