Tree Information
Specialities
Tolerances
Wet Soil: Low
Dry Soil: Medium
Lime: Medium
Prunus lusitanica, commonly known as Portuguese laurel, is an evergreen shrub or small tree, native to Portugal and western Spain. It has a good rounded habit.
One of the distinguishing features of the Portuguese laurel is its profusion of small white flowers that bloom in 12-15cm long racemes in early summer. These fragrant blossoms attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Following the flowering period, the tree produces small green oval fruits that turn red-dark purple as they mature. These aren’t typically consumed by humans.
Very often used as hedging thanks to its dense growth habit and foliage. Also acts as excellent screening and windbreak. Make sure to protect from frost and cold winds as the Portuguese Laurel isn’t fully hardy. Does best in climates that have warmer winters.
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Useful ResourcesSize
Small
6m high x 4m wide after 25 years
Environment
Great for large gardens and housing estates.
Canopy
Dense branching and round crown.
Foliage
Leathery leaves that are oval to elongated in shape around 6-12cm long and slightly serrated.
Flowers
In early summer, erect racemes with small cream fragrant flowers appear.
Fruit
Small green oval fruits that turn red to dark purple.
Resilience
Likes moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Will thrive in fertile soil, and even on poor chalky soils. Wind resistant, even against sea wind, however will need to be protected against cold dry wind and frost. Once established, it exhibits good drought tolerance.
Available As:
Multi-stem
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