Compact Carolina Cherry Laurel

Moderate-growing evergreen shrub or small tree with an upright growth-habit to 8-10’ tall x 6-8’ wide, or more with age. This highly popular landscape variety is revered for its durability, its dense, compact growth-habit and ability to tolerate heat, wind and periods of drought.  Attractive, glossy medium to dark-green foliage is accented with fragrant, frilly, creamy-white flower clusters that appear in spring attracting butterflies and bees. Flowers are followed by small blackish-colored fruit, which can stain concrete which should be considered when choosing a planting location. It should also be noted that all parts of this plant are poisonous. Takes well to shearing and is often used for shaping into a large hedge, screen or column, as well as making a good low-maintenance tree for small areas. When regularly sheared, flowers and fruit are seldom produced. While capable of withstanding drought conditions, regular watering for the first couple of seasons will help promote a more vigorous growing specimen. Prefers a well-drained soil in a full to partial sun exposure.

USDA Zone: 7A-10B