All Laurel hedging supplied by Grasslands is grown for UK conditions and delivered nationwide.

Why choose Laurel hedging?

• Evergreen foliage for year-round privacy and screening
• Dense growth habit ideal for boundaries and noise reduction
• Suitable for a wide range of UK soil types
• Can be maintained as formal or informal hedges
• Reliable, long-lasting hedge solution

Types of Laurel hedging available

Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)

Cherry Laurel is the fastest-growing laurel hedge option, known for its large, glossy green leaves and dense coverage. It is ideal for creating tall hedges quickly and provides excellent privacy. Cherry Laurel tolerates shade, clay soils and exposed sites, making it one of the most versatile laurel hedging plants.

Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica)

Portuguese Laurel has smaller, darker green leaves and a more refined appearance. It grows more slowly than Cherry Laurel and is often chosen for formal hedges where a neat, controlled shape is preferred. Portuguese Laurel suits gardens where appearance is as important as privacy.

Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)

Bay Laurel is best known for its aromatic leaves used in cooking. While it can be grown as a hedge or specimen plant, it is slower growing and less commonly used for large privacy hedges compared to Cherry or Portuguese Laurel.

Cherry Laurel vs Portuguese Laurel

The choice between Cherry Laurel and Portuguese Laurel depends on your priorities:

• Cherry Laurel – Faster growing, larger leaves, ideal for rapid privacy.
• Portuguese Laurel – Slower growing, smaller leaves, more formal appearance.

Laurel hedge growth rate & height

Laurel hedging typically grows at a rate of around 30–60cm per year depending on variety and growing conditions. Left untrimmed, many laurel hedges can reach heights of 5–8 metres, although most garden hedges are easily maintained between 1.5 and 3.5 metres with regular pruning.

How far apart to plant Laurel hedging

Spacing will vary depending on plant size and variety, but as a general guide:

• Smaller plants: 2–3 plants per metre
• Medium plants: 2 plants per metre
• Larger instant hedging: 1–1.5 plants per metre

Where to site your Laurel hedge

In the UK, laurel hedging thrives in well-drained soil and adapts well to clay, loam and sandy soils. Most laurels prefer full sun to partial shade and benefit from shelter from strong, drying winds. Good soil preparation and regular watering during establishment will help ensure healthy growth. For best results, follow our hedge planting guide.

Caring for Laurel hedging

Common Laurel hedge problems