Compact Laurel Hedge (Prunus laurocerasus 'Otto Luyken')

Compact Laurel Hedge Plants Description

Compact Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus Otto Luyken) is a popular choice for creating low, dense hedges with a neat, tidy appearance. This variety of Laurel is known for its compact growth habit and attractive, dark green, glossy leaves. It provides excellent year-round coverage and is particularly well-suited for smaller gardens or as a border plant where space is limited.

The growth rate of Compact Laurel is moderate, typically growing around 20 to 30 centimetres per year. It generally reaches a height of 1 to 1.5 metres, making it ideal for low hedging or informal borders. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is also hardy, tolerant of various soil types, and resilient to both cold temperatures and urban conditions.

Pruning Advice

To maintain the shape and density of a Compact Laurel hedge, it should be pruned once or twice a year. The best time for pruning is in late spring or early summer, after the plant has finished flowering. Light trimming throughout the growing season can help keep the hedge looking neat and encourage bushier growth. Use sharp shears to remove any overgrown or misshapen areas and to maintain the desired height and width. Avoid heavy pruning into old wood, as this can affect the hedge’s overall health and appearance.

With its compact growth, evergreen foliage, and low-maintenance nature, Compact Laurel is an excellent choice for a stylish, functional hedge that fits well in smaller spaces and provides year-round beauty.

Further Information

Compact Laurel offers several advantages as a hedge plant. Its dense foliage provides excellent privacy and creates a robust screen that can effectively block wind and noise. The plant is evergreen, ensuring that the hedge maintains its attractive appearance throughout the year. Additionally, Compact Laurel is low-maintenance and resistant to pests and diseases, making it a reliable choice for those seeking an easy-to-care-for hedge. Its compact size also makes it ideal for smaller garden spaces or for creating well-defined garden edges.

Planting distances are largely a matter of preference. For bare root plants, spacing them at 3 plants per metre is sufficient, 5 plants is optimal, and 7 plants in a double staggered row will result in a denser hedge more quickly. Generally, smaller plants should be planted at a higher density. For cell-grown plants, spacing at 4 plants per metre in a single row or ideally 6 plants per metre in a staggered row is recommended.

Delivery & Returns

Free delivery is available on most orders (except Premium Products) providing they meet the minimum spend criteria for the size of box or pallet. Pallet deliveries and large box deliveries for tall plants are indicated by icons on the product table listings. Delivery costs and minimum order details for each packaging type are as follows:

* Standard Sized Boxes (Bare root up to 1.2m tall & pots up to 7.5L) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £9.98 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £250 | or £24.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £82 charge.

* Pleached Trees (Specialist Delivery) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £1500 | or £450 charge.