Cherry laurel

Profile

Family

Rosaceae

Habit

Shrub

Height

6.5 m

Spread

10 m

Growth

fast

Lifespan

100 years

First yield

after 4 years

Hardiness

zone 6–8

Shade tolerance

full shade

Soil

Sand, Silt, Loam, Clay

Soil moisture

dry – very wet

pH

5.5 – 8

Synonyms

Lorbeerkirsche

Flowering & harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible: Fruit - raw or cooked. The 'Camellifolia' variety produces large quantities of fruit. The fruit is about the size of a large cherry and tastes pleasantly sweet when fully ripe. It has a jelly-like texture and a slight astringency. Some sources suggest the fruit may be toxic, but this likely refers to the unripe fruit. We have consumed this fruit in large quantities without any negative effects, so any toxicity is very low. However, bitter fruits should not be consumed in large amounts as the bitterness is caused by toxic compounds. The fruit has a diameter of about 8 mm and contains a large seed. Distilled water from the leaves is used as an almond flavoring. It should be used in small quantities as it is toxic in large amounts. Seeds - raw or cooked. Do not eat the seed if it is too bitter.

Medicinal: Although no specific mention was found for this type, all members of the genus contain substances that break down into hydrogen cyanide (cyanide or prussic acid) in water. In small amounts, this highly toxic compound stimulates respiration, improves digestion, and provides a sense of well-being.

Other uses: This plant is excellent for pruning and is particularly suitable for hedges, especially in shady areas. Some varieties like 'Cherry Brandy', 'Otto Luyken', 'Zabelina', and 'Schipkaensis' grow low and make excellent ground cover for sunny or shady locations. The distilled water from the leaves is used in perfumery. The leaves can also be used to eliminate strong odors like garlic or cloves, provided that the fat has been completely removed first. Dyes can be extracted from the leaves and fruits. The wood, with a pinkish-gray color, is utilized for turning and woodworking.

Growing

Requires a well-draining, moisture-retentive soil. Thrives in heavy clay soils and tolerates limestone well. Prefers some chalk in the soil but can become chlorotic if excessive. Extremely shade-tolerant, growing well even in dense tree shade with minimal direct light. However, blooms better in sunnier locations. A highly decorative plant with numerous named varieties. The 'Otto Luyken' variety is a low-growing narrow-leaved form that blooms in spring and autumn. The tiny flowers have a strong scent, albeit somewhat unpleasant. This is a matter of taste, as some find the smell sweet and pleasant. As a competitive plant, it inhibits the growth of neighboring plants and should be introduced with caution, as it often self-seeds in forests, hindering the successful regeneration of native trees by shading seedlings. Most species in this genus have shallow roots and produce runners if the roots are damaged. The flowers attract butterflies and moths. This species is particularly resistant to root rot but susceptible to bacterial cankers that can kill large branches. Prune in spring or late summer (preferably with garden shears). Old plants can be heavily pruned in spring and recover quickly.

Propagation

Seeds - require 2-3 months of cold stratification and are best sown immediately after ripening in a cold frame. Sow stored seeds in the cold frame as early as possible in the year. Protect the seeds from mice. Germination can be quite slow and sometimes take up to 18 months. When the seedlings are large enough, prick them out into individual pots. Raise them in a greenhouse or cold frame during the first winter and plant them outdoors the following spring or summer. Take cuttings from semi-ripe shoots with a heel in July/August in a cold frame. Take cuttings from mature wood in October in a sheltered, north-facing outdoor bed. Layering in spring.

Notable

Special features: tolerant to drought and sea winds, highly responsive to pruning; The 'Camelliifolia' type yields abundant high-quality fruit resembling cherries; numerous varieties that grow low to the ground; young leaves contain extrafloral nectaries attracting bees, ants, etc.; typically blooms twice annually in spring and midsummer; fast-spreading.

Origin & habitat

Europe to Western Asia. More or less naturalized in a certain country.

Rich forests containing Fagus, Picea, and Abies species, which can also be found above the tree line. Sandy and peaty soils in forests and open areas.

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