Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Prunus lusitanica or Portugal laurel

The genus Prunus, family Rosaceae, comprises 200 species of trees and shrubs native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Some species are: Prunus lusitanica, Prunus laurocerasus, Prunus incisa, Prunus dulcis, Prunus cerasifera, Prunus avium, Prunus domestica, Prunus mahaleb, Prunus spinosa, Prunus persica, Prunus armeniaca, Prunus serrulata, Prunus cerasus.

Common name: Portugal laurel. This species is native to the Western Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, Azores and Madeira.

They are slow-growing evergreen shrubs that reach 4 meters (13.12 feet) in height. The leaves are glossy dark green, with reddish petioles and oval shape. The flowers are white, small, scented and appear in spikes. They bloom in early summer. The fruits are quite decorative purple berries.

Portugal laurel is used to form hedges or barriers, in bushy groups, as isolated specimens and in large pots for terraces and patios.

Prunus lusitanica prefers full sun exposure but can grow in semi-shade. It resists occasional frosts. It should be protected from the cold and dry wind.

The soil can be a garden substrate with coarse sand and organic matter.

Water regularly, without flooding, so that the substrate never dries completely; reduce watering during winter.

Fertilize with compost in late winter and with mineral fertilizer every 3 weeks in spring and summer.

Prune lightly in spring to control growth and remove dry branches.

Prunus lusitanica is a quite resistant plant to the usual pests and diseases.

Portugal laurel is propagated by semi-woody cuttings in summer.

Images of the shrub Prunus lusitanica or Portugal laurel