Prunus laurocerasus ‘On Fire’ – A Striking Evergreen Laurel with Red-Tipped Foliage

Prunus laurocerasus ‘On Fire’ is a vigorous evergreen shrub admired for its glossy green leaves tipped with fiery red new growth. Ideal for hedges, screens, and bold garden accents, it combines year-round structure with dramatic seasonal colour.

‘On Fire’ produces fresh red foliage in spring that gradually matures to dark green, creating a striking contrast in mixed borders or formal hedges. Its dense growth habit provides excellent privacy and wind protection, while small clusters of white flowers in late spring may appear, followed by black berries that attract birds.

Why Grow Prunus laurocerasus ‘On Fire’?

Red-Tipped New Growth –
Young leaves emerge vibrant red, providing dynamic colour against mature green foliage.

Evergreen Structure –
Dense, glossy foliage ensures year-round coverage, perfect for privacy screens.

Ideal for Hedges and Screens –
Fast-growing and bushy, it’s excellent for tall or low hedges.

Seasonal Flowers and Berries –
Small white blooms in late spring may produce black berries, attracting wildlife.

Hardy and Low-Maintenance –
Reliable evergreen that tolerates a range of soil types and urban conditions.

Height and Spread of Prunus laurocerasus ‘On Fire’

Typically grows to approximately 2–3m in height with a spread of 1.5–2.5m, depending on pruning and growing conditions.

Where to Site Your Prunus laurocerasus ‘On Fire’

Privacy Hedges and Screens:
Perfect for creating vibrant evergreen boundaries.

Mixed Borders:
Adds dramatic contrast with its red-tipped foliage.

Urban and Suburban Gardens:
Tolerates city conditions, pollution, and exposed sites.

Feature Planting:
Use as a specimen shrub to highlight seasonal red foliage.

How to Grow and Care for Prunus laurocerasus ‘On Fire’

Soil –
Thrives in well-drained, fertile soil but is tolerant of most soil types.

Light –
Best in full sun to partial shade. Sun enhances the red colouring of new growth.

Watering –
Water regularly during establishment. Once mature, it is drought-tolerant.

Maintenance

Pruning –
Lightly prune in spring to maintain shape and encourage fresh red growth.

Feeding –
Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support growth and leaf colour.

Mulching –
Apply organic mulch annually to retain soil moisture and improve fertility.

Pest & Disease Resistance –
Generally robust,

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.

Laurel Hedging (Prunus) On Fire 6 Litre Pot Delivery March Grasslands Nursery Winter Hardy Fast Growing White Evergreen

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.