They are part of thePrunus genus, which also includes plum,peach, andalmond trees.

Cherry laurels areshade tolerantand rapid growers that can be ideal forprivacy shrubsin a garden setting.

They are resilient and quite easy to care for, especially when already well-established in the garden.

Cherry laurel shrub branch with waxy leaves and black

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

It’s also among the fastest-growingshrub varietiesthey can reach heights over 25 feet when mature.

Light

The cherry laurel is fairly low maintenance when it comes to its sun preferences.

It tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial and even full shade.

Cherry laurel shrub with dark green leaves and white flower spikes surrounded by sand

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Soil

Proper drainage is crucial for the survival of the cherry laurel plant.

It also prefers fertile, slightlyacidic soil.

Most cherry laurels will grow best in temperatures between 59 and 68 degrees.

Cherry laurel shrub branch with short white flowers spikes on branches with waxy large leaves

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

Aim for either the late spring or early summer, after it has bloomed.

They are easy to prune, especially when planted as part of a hedge.

Propagating Cherry Laurel

Cherry laurel plants can be propagated through stem cuttings.

Cherry laurel shrub branch with white flower spike and red butterfly on top closeup

The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova

The cuttings can be planted and watered in a sheltered spot in the garden for the best growth.

It’s important to keep air flowing within the plant’s foliage to maintain health.

Cherry laurels can live to more than 100 years old.

This fast-growing shrub can grow over 25 inches per year.

Inkberry hollyis another shrub that works well as an evergreen hedge.

It has smooth leaves, unlike other holly bushes, and dark berries that are also toxic.