Carolina cherry laurel (Prunus caroliniana)

Carolina cherry laurel

Also known as: Carolina laurelcherry

The carolina cherry laurel is a native species of the southeastern United States. This broadleaf evergreen can reach heights of 4.5 to 6 m. Its fragrant white flowers bloom from late winter to early spring and develop into fruits that mature in the fall to a shiny black. This fruit is an important food source for area birds.

Scientific classification

Species

Carolina cherry laurel (Prunus caroliniana)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Toxic to Human & Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

5 m to 13 m

Plant Height

6 m to 9 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

8 mm

Flower Size

Green, Black

Fruit Color

White

Flower Color

Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Carolina cherry laurel

Distribution of Carolina cherry laurel

Distribution Map

Carolina cherry laurel is native to the southeast and south-central US. It grows in low woodlands, fields, thickets, and maritime forests in moist, sandy, loamy, and clay soils. In addition to its native growth, carolina cherry laurel is commonly used for landscaping.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Deep, well-drained rich moist bottomlands, Bluffs or streambanks

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Carolina cherry laurel is a shrub or tree popular for its evergreen leaves, which grow densely enough to make it a good candidate for hedging. Further appeal is added by its delicate, showy white flowers and bird-attracting fruit. This drought-tolerant plant is easy to grow and makes a good specimen tree, and it is wind-friendly enough to be a good windbreak. It makes a great addition to coastal, informal, and cottage gardens. Floribunda rose and rock cotoneaster look great and grow well with carolina cherry laurel.

Symbolism

Hope of the spring, endurance, glory

Interesting Facts

Although carolina cherry laurel is often chosen for its ability to tolerate salt spray and pollution. It is also attractive to pollinators and birds. However, it comes with drawbacks. It is highly toxic due to the presence of cyanide compounds. It is also highly invasive.

Name Story

Carolina cherry laurel: It is well known that the word cherry is used in the names of most Prunus plants. This plant is no exception. Its flowers are white or cream-colored, look very similar to osmanthus. Its leaves are similar to those of laurel trees and are native to the lowlands of Southeastern United States, from North Carolina south to Florida and westward to central Texas. So, it is called Carolina cherry laurel.

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Toxicity

Carolina cherry laurel contains cyanogenic glycosides in its seeds, leaves, and twigs, which can severely harm humans when ingested. Symptoms include shortness of breath, pupil dilation, weakness, and increased heart rate; in severe cases, they can lead to a coma, respiratory failure, or death.

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Quickly Identify Carolina cherry laurel

Reticulated pattern on glossy leaves with distinctive basal glands.

Maraschino cherry-like scent when leaves are crushed.

Small white flowers in short racemes blooming in late winter.

Dark black drupes with large stones, important for bird consumption.

Trunk with gray bark, lenticels, and distinctive splitting as it matures.

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Care Guide for Carolina cherry laurel

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Carolina cherry laurel thrives in moderate moisture and well-drained soil, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks to avoid saturation. As an evergreen, it benefits from consistent hydration during its growing season to promote lush foliage and flowering, making it suitable for outdoor cultivation.

Fertilize: For carolina cherry laurel, use a balanced fertilizer, applying high-nitrogen in spring and balanced types from summer to autumn. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks, ensuring thorough watering afterward for nutrient absorption and to prevent root burn, supporting healthier growth and enhanced blooming or fruiting.

Pruning: Carolina cherry laurel is an evergreen shrub with glossy dark-green leaves and small white flowers. Pruning in early to late winter helps shape the plant, control size, and enhance air circulation, which reduces disease risk. Regular trimming promotes growth, flowering, and berry production, boosting its ornamental value.

Propagation: Carolina cherry laurel is propagated using semi-hardwood cuttings in well-draining soil. Dipping the cut end in rooting hormone promotes root growth. Consistent moisture and a stable environment are essential for successful establishment, leading to new plants resembling the parent.

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Images of Carolina cherry laurel

Distribution of Carolina cherry laurel

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Carolina cherry laurel

Care Guide for Carolina cherry laurel

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