Portuguese Laurel Hedge (Prunus lusitanica)

Portuguese Laurel Plants Description

Portuguese Laurel is a refined evergreen hedge with narrow, pointed, deep-green glossy leaves set against striking maroon stems. The young stems start out green and gradually turn maroon as they mature, although in lower light or cooler conditions, they may retain more of their green colour.

In summer, this plant produces small, fragrant white flowers that attract bees and butterflies, along with small red fruits that are a favorite of birds. By autumn, these fruits turn black. With its traditional elegance similar to Bay Laurel, Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia' is an excellent choice for formal hedging.

This plant is easy to grow in various soil types and conditions, including dry shade. However, if growing in dry shade, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and fed until it is fully established. While chalky soil is particularly well-suited to Portuguese Laurel, it is best to avoid planting in coastal areas.

Portuguese Laurel is exceptionally resilient and hardier than Cherry Laurel, though some wind protection may be necessary in areas prone to windburn. With a medium growth rate, it is easy to maintain and shape, typically requiring only one trim per year in late summer, though it can grow taller if needed.

Like other Laurel varieties (except Bay Laurel), the leaves and berries of Portuguese Laurel are harmful if ingested.

Pruning Advice

Portuguese Laurel has a medium growth rate, making it easy to maintain and shape. Typically, it requires just one trim per year in late summer, though it can grow quite tall if desired.

Further Information

You can find our recommended planting densities for each size and root type in the product grid. Use these as a guide while considering how quickly you want your hedge to fill out. Generally, bare roots can be planted at densities ranging from 3 to 7 per metre, while cell-grown plants are best at 4 to 6 per metre. For denser hedges, the higher planting densities should be arranged in a double staggered row or zig-zag pattern.

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 £100 | or £7.99 charge.

* Tall Sized Boxes (Bare roots 1.2m & over) | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £100 | or £14.99 charge.

* Pallets (Root balls, large pots 10L+, trees etc | Free UK Mainland Delivery for orders over £350 | or £60 charge.

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