About
A dense, bushy, evergreen shrub or tree to 8m tall, with large, red-stalked, glossy dark green leaves, reddish when young. In early summer it produces erect flowerspikes to 10cm long, composed of numerous cup-shaped white flowers. These are followed by spherical red fruits to 1cm across, which ripen to black.
About the genus
Prunus can be deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs with showy flowers in spring, and often good autumn foliage colour. Some have edible fruit in autumn, and a few species have ornamental bark
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Wildlife gardens
Native toAzores
ToxicityLeaves harmful if eaten, fruit edible if ripe, but may be harmful if bitter. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, rabbits, rodents): Harmful if eaten - for further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any moist but well-drained, moderately fertile soil in sun or partial shade
PruningSee pruning group 8
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to laurel leaf disease