Cherry laurel, Prunus laurocerasus - Shrub

Whenever people ask me about planting a fast growing evergreen hedging plant (they usually condense this into saying "Lleylandii") I direct them towards Prunus laurocerasus, the cherry laurel.  

A much nicer looking plant, bushy, quick growing but not in the same bully-boy league as Lleylandii, and with the bonus of spring flowers and the ability to regenerate itself when cut back hard into brown wood. An evergreen shrub with large glossy, dark green leaves. It makes an excellent hedging plant, and can cope with deep shade under trees was well as full sun. Sometimes there are cherry red berries which are harmful if eaten. Will grow into a loose tree if allowed to go unpruned.

As well as being used for hedges, make a good windbreak for an exposed corner if planted alone, or a good dark green backdrop to more ornamental plants.

A smaller variety "Otto luyken" is available that grows only to about 1m x 1.5m (3ft x 5ft), good for the more restricted situation.

Position: full sun, partial shade or shade

Soil: any except shallow chalk

Rate of growth: fast-growing

Flowering period: April

Flower color: white

Hardiness: fully hardy, not suitable for very exposed positions