Prunus Lusitanica
Portuguese Laurel
From Southeast Europe and Southwest Asia; widely grown across UK and European nurseries
£20
A robust and handsome evergreen shrub beloved by British gardeners for its glossy, rich green foliage and vigorous habit. New growth flushes with a fresh lime-green that adds wonderful contrast against the deeper, more mature leaves — giving it real year-round interest. Versatile and fast-growing, it makes an excellent privacy screen, hedge, or standalone specimen for those who want structure and lushness without fuss.
Care
Thrives in full sun to full shade, making it one of the most adaptable hedging plants available. Water well when establishing, after which it is remarkably drought tolerant. Prune in late spring or early summer using secateurs (not shears, to avoid leaf scorch) to maintain shape. Avoid waterlogged soils. Can be hard pruned to rejuvenate if needed.
Hardiness: H5