English Laurel

Prunus laurocerasus

small white flowers resemble cherry flowers.

Photo Credit: John Ruter, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

leaves of English laurel are thick, shiny, oval with pointed tips.

Photo Credit: John Ruter, University Of Georgia, Bugwood.org

full large English laurel shrub with upright growth form

Photo Credit: John Ruter, University of Georgia, Bugwood.org

Plant Description

A large evergreen shrub or tree that can grow from 10-30 ft. Leaves are thick, 3-8 in. long, oblong, pointed at the tip, alternate, and are darker green on top and paler green on the underside. Clusters of small, cream to white flowers. Berries are black when ripe.

Plant Details

Life Forms	Shrub
Habitats	Forest edges Forest openings Forest understories Forests Gardens Parklands Residential yards Woodlands
ODA Listing	not listed
Soil and Moisture Conditions	Dry to moist Well drained
Suggested Actions	Use BMPs to control on private property
Shade Preference	Full shade Full sun Part shade
Mature Height	10-30'
Distribution	Widespread in yards and parks
Control	Hand pull small seedlings. For larger plants, cut stems closes to ground and dig out stump and as much roots as possible. For larger infestations, chemical methods are more effective. Always follow all label directions. Replace with Pacific Wax Myrtle or Snowbrush.
Disposal Methods	Turn stumps upside down or chip and use as mulch.
Reproduction and Spread	Spreads easily via birds.
Introduced	Introduced through landscaping trade from southwestern Asia and southeastern Europe.
Look Alikes	Other laurels and Ilex latifolia. Somewhat similar to Bay Laurel.
Impact	Displaces beneficial native plants. Very poisonous leaves, twigs, and seeds when ingested. Common invader of urban parks and forests.
More Info	https://www.nwcb.wa.gov/weeds/cherry-laurel https://kingcounty.gov/en/legacy/services/environment/animals-and-plants/noxious-weeds/weed-identification/english-laurel.aspx https://www.marionswcd.net/weed-of-the-month-english-laurel/