Prunus lusitanica 'Myrtifolia' (Portuguese Laurel) – 7.5 Litre Pot

Prunus lusitanica 'Myrtifolia', commonly known as Portuguese Laurel, is an elegant, compact evergreen shrub prized for its neat, dense habit and glossy, deep green foliage. This refined cultivar of the classic Portuguese Laurel features narrower, more pointed leaves and a more upright, tidy growth style, making it a top choice for smart hedging or stylish structural planting.

Ideal for low-maintenance gardens, formal borders, or urban spaces, ‘Myrtifolia’ is easy to grow and highly adaptable. It thrives in a wide range of conditions, including shade, clay soils, and exposed sites.

Why Choose Prunus lusitanica 'Myrtifolia'?

• Compact, Upright Habit – Grows more slender and dense than traditional Portuguese Laurel.

• Glossy Evergreen Foliage – Rich green leaves held on striking red stems for year-round colour and structure.

• Hardy & Reliable – Withstands cold, wind, pollution, and drought once established.

• Low Maintenance – Responds well to pruning and can be clipped into a tidy hedge or left to grow naturally.

• Great for Hedging or Screening – Perfect for creating privacy in smaller gardens without bulkiness.

Plant Details:

• Pot Size: 7.5 Litre

• Current Height: Approximately 80/100cm (seasonal variation applies)

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Ultimate Height & Spread: Up to 3–5m tall and 2–3m wide if left untrimmed

• Position: Sun or shade

• Soil: Any well-drained soil; tolerates poor or chalky soils

• Hardiness: Fully hardy in UK climates

Seasonal Interest:

In early summer, small clusters of fragrant white flowers appear, occasionally followed by red berries that ripen to dark purple — a magnet for birds and pollinators.

Care Advice:

• Water regularly during the first season, especially in dry periods.

• Mulch annually to retain moisture and improve soil condition.

• Prune once or twice a year to maintain the desired shape or size.

A perfect option for those looking to create evergreen structure with a more polished look, Prunus lusitanica 'Myrtifolia' in a 7.5L pot offers the ideal balance of form, function, and beauty.

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.