The evergreen laurel Prunus laurocerasus Rotundifolia is a striking specimen. Its large evergreen leaves form a dense, attractive, long-lasting windbreak or screen.
The plants make an excellent hedge and can withstand deep shade under trees and full sun. It produces small flowers on spikes in mid-spring, followed by poisonous Cherry-red berries.
Prunus laurocerasus Rotundifolia is complicated and straightforward to grow, but it should not be grown in highly alkaline or seaside gardens. These plants grow at a rate of about 30/60cm per year.
We will walk you through the process of planting a Prunus Laurocerasus Rotundifolia in this post.
Thus, without further ado, let us begin.
What is Prunus Laurocerasus’s common name?
Prunus laurocerasus is the original Common Laurel species. It is a fast-growing, evergreen, wide-spreading shrub that can reach a height of 18ft (6 metres). This is the species of Common Laurel (also known as Cherry Laurel or English Laurel) from which most of the other varieties have evolved.
Why should you grow Rotundifolia Prunus laurocerasus?
In the United Kingdom, this is one of the most extensively utilised hedging plants. This plant’s foliage and growth habit are only two of the traits that contribute to its popularity as a laurel hedge species. Here are some other reasons to nurture these laurel hedging plants:
- The plants are available with a range of root systems, including potted, root ball, and bare root.
- It produces an attractive hedge, and its evergreen leaves and high growth rate may give your yard a dense, long-lasting privacy hedge.
- The plants are versatile and flourish in all soil types except poorly drained or calcareous soils.
- They form a dense, bushy hedge, but you won’t have to worry about overgrowth due to the plant’s minimal care requirements. They just need pruning twice a year.
- When completely grown, they may reach a height of 5 metres, enabling you to place them along borders.
- They are helpful for some functions, including windbreak, seclusion, and decorative value.
- Additionally, they effectively reduce noise and pollution, making them perfect for gardens next to factories or busy highways.
- The bright-green leaves enhance the aesthetics of your landscape while reflecting an excessive amount of sunlight.
Where to Plant
Except for shallow chalk, Prunus laurocerasus Rotundifolia grows well in any soil with good drainage. It thrives in either full sun or partial shade. It is hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -15 C. However, it’s sensitive to coastal exposure and should not be planted near the sea.
How to Plant Prunus Laurocerasus Rotundifolia: Step By Step Guide
These Laurel plants will establish quickly and grow into a healthy, evergreen hedge if planted correctly. Here are the steps to take:
Step 1 :
After preparing a strip of ground, mark out the hedge line with a piece of string or garden line. Dig a trench twice the width and height of the clod. Combine the trench soil with well-rotted organic matter. If the planting area has heavy soil, use a fork to break the bottom and sides of the trench. This will make it easier for the root system to penetrate the surrounding soil.
Step 2 :
Check that the trench is at least 1 or 2 cm deeper than the clod. If the clod is too high, remove some soil from the trench’s bottom. Place the plant in the trench and begin backfilling the soil mixture with your feet, gently firming it down. Check that the plant is standing straight.
Step 3 :
Once the trench has been filled, gently firm the soil again to remove any air pockets and ensure the plant is secure. Thoroughly water the plant. Cover the planting area with a thin layer of mulch to discourage weeds and reduce soil evaporation.
Advice & Care
- Laurel Rotundifolia should be pruned in the fall and spring. The plant can withstand heavy pruning. To limit the plant’s growth in a hedge, prune once a year in the fall as sap descends. If you continue to prune in the spring, the shrub will grow more vigorously and quickly.
- Water is critical for the establishment of young plants. You must check the roots regularly to ensure that they are moist. Summer rain does not reach the roots, and windy conditions increase the rate of water evaporation from the soil. You should also keep an eye on the evergreens during the winter because they will lose moisture through their foliage.
- Keep grass and other plants out of the way of the young plants. In this case, mulching will aid in the control of grass and weeds and lower the rate of water evaporation from the soil. However, keep the mulch 10cm away from the plant’s trunk to prevent rotting. When planting, fill the trench with well-rotten compost manure and stake it firmly.
FAQ
Prunus Laurocerasus rotundifolia grows how fast?
Laurel hedging grows at a relatively fast rate of around 30 – 60cm per year, making it cost-effective to achieve height. Laurel can quickly grow to 20 – 30 feet over time, but it is easy to keep at a lower height.
What is the appearance of Prunus Laurocerasus?
Prunus laurocerasus is an evergreen shrub or small to medium-sized tree that grows to 5 to 15 metres (16 to 49 feet) tall, rarely to 18 metres (59 feet), and has a trunk up to 60 cm wide. The leaves are dark green, leathery, and shiny, measuring (5-)10-25(-30) cm in length and 4-10 cm in width, with a finely serrated margin.
Prunus Laurocerasus grows in the shade?
Prunus laurocerasus Rotundifolia is a hardy plant that tolerates both full sun and full shade and thrives in all but waterlogged or chalky soils.
How do you bring a dying laurel back to life?
Once planted, Laurels do not require stakes or watering. Don’t give them anything. They should either replace or refund the item. Remove the thin spindly weak growth from the top of the remaining ones, and replace the others.
Conclusion
Following the process mentioned above, you can Prunus Laurocerasus Rotundifolia. Prunus laurocerasus rotundifolia is an evergreen shrub with lush, glossy leaves that is equally appealing in summer and winter. It is an excellent choice for establishing a hedge and is one of the most often employed species.
Do follow the procedure and please let us know your opinion.
Best wishes!!
