Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia,' commonly known as English Laurel or Cherry Laurel 'Rotundifolia,' is a popular evergreen shrub often used for hedging, screening, or as an ornamental plant in gardens. Here are the characteristics and planting instructions for this plant:
Characteristics:
- Foliage: English Laurel 'Rotundifolia' has glossy, dark green leaves that are oval to elliptical in shape and have a leathery texture. The leaves are evergreen, providing year-round interest.
- Growth Habit: It grows as a dense, upright shrub with a rounded form. It can reach a height of around 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters) with a similar spread, making it ideal for hedging and screening purposes.
- Growth Rate: Fast - two to three feet per year.
- Flowers: In spring, it produces fragrant, creamy white flower spikes that are attractive to pollinators.
- Fruit: The shrub can produce small, dark purple to black berries, though they are not typically eaten by humans and can be toxic if ingested.
Planting Instructions:
1. Site Selection:
- Choose a location with well-draining soil. English Laurel 'Rotundifolia' is adaptable to various soil types but prefers soil that is not overly soggy.
- It thrives in full to partial sunlight. While it can tolerate some shade, it will have denser growth and better flowering in more sunlight.
2. Planting Process:
- Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball of the plant.
- Gently remove the shrub from its container and place it in the hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the surrounding soil.
- Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down as you go to remove air pockets.
- Water the shrub thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
3. Watering:
- Water the plant regularly after planting, especially during its first growing season, to establish a strong root system.
- Once established, English Laurel is relatively drought-tolerant, but regular watering during dry spells will promote healthier growth and better appearance.
