Portuguese Laurel Bare Root (Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia')

Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia', commonly known as Portuguese Laurel or Portugal Laurel, is widely regarded as the most elegant and refined evergreen hedging plant available to British gardeners. This sophisticated shrub combines lustrous dark green foliage, naturally compact growth, and exceptional hardiness with an aristocratic appearance that suits both formal and informal garden designs. Unlike its larger-leaved cousin cherry laurel, Portuguese Laurel offers small, neat leaves, attractive red stems, and a slower, more controllable growth habit that makes it perfect for topiary, formal hedging, and situations where refinement is preferred over rapid results. These bare root plants establish reliably when planted during the dormant season, offering excellent value for discerning gardeners seeking premium-quality evergreen hedging that brings year-round structure, sophistication, and timeless elegance whilst requiring minimal maintenance once established.

Key Features

'Angustifolia' produces small, neat, oval-shaped leaves that are considerably more refined than cherry laurel. The leaves typically measure just 6-10 cm long and 2-3 cm wide, creating a fine-textured, elegant appearance that's particularly suited to formal gardens, topiary work, and sophisticated planting schemes. This compact foliage gives Portuguese Laurel its distinctive refined character.

The leaves are thick, leathery, and exceptionally glossy with a rich, very dark green colour – almost black-green in some lights – that appears deeply polished and sophisticated. The leaf margins are finely serrated, adding subtle textural interest. The foliage is evergreen, providing constant coverage and structure throughout the year with a density and quality that's noticeably superior to most hedging plants.

One particularly attractive feature is the striking contrast between the dark green leaves and the bright red leaf stalks (petioles) and young stems. This red colouration is especially pronounced on new growth and creates beautiful colour accents that add ornamental interest year-round. The combination of glossy dark green leaves against burgundy-red stems is sophisticated and eye-catching.

In early summer (June), the plant produces elegant, slender spikes of small white flowers that are sweetly fragrant with a hawthorn-like scent. These flower racemes can reach 15-25 cm long and hang gracefully from the branches, creating a delicate, frothy display that's particularly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators. The flowering is more refined and later than cherry laurel, adding a different seasonal dimension.

Following successful pollination, small cherry-like fruits develop in late summer, ripening from green through red to dark purple-black. These berries are attractive to birds and add seasonal interest, though regular hedge trimming usually prevents both flowering and fruiting.

The growth habit is naturally dense, bushy, and more compact than cherry laurel, with a slightly conical or columnar form when young that matures into a rounded outline. Growth is slow to moderate at approximately 15-30 cm per year – considerably slower than cherry laurel (30-60 cm) or 'Novita' (50-75 cm). This slower growth is actually one of Portuguese Laurel's key advantages, as it means hedges require less frequent trimming and remain at manageable sizes without constant intervention.

At maturity, Portuguese Laurel typically reaches 4-6 metres in height if left untrimmed (similar to cherry laurel), though the slower growth rate means this takes considerably longer to achieve. The spread is usually 2-3 metres. The plant is easily maintained at any desired height from 1 metre upwards through occasional pruning, and the dense, fine-textured growth makes it particularly suitable for formal topiary shapes.

Portuguese Laurel is notably more cold-hardy than cherry laurel, tolerating temperatures down to -20°C or lower without damage, making it reliable even in the coldest parts of Britain, exposed upland areas, and northern regions where cherry laurel might suffer winter damage.

Growing Conditions

Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia' is adaptable and will grow in most well-drained soils including clay, loam, sandy, and chalky soils. It tolerates both acidic and alkaline conditions (pH 5.0-8.0) and isn't particularly demanding regarding soil fertility. However, Portuguese Laurel has a definite preference for well-drained conditions and dislikes waterlogged soils more than cherry laurel – good drainage is important for success.

The plant performs best in reasonably fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. It tolerates quite dry conditions once established and actually thrives better in drier situations than cherry laurel, which can suffer in prolonged drought. This makes Portuguese Laurel particularly suitable for free-draining soils, chalky conditions, and gardens with good drainage.

Portuguese Laurel grows well in full sun or partial shade, producing the most compact growth and best appearance in sun or light shade. Unlike cherry laurel which excels in deep shade, Portuguese Laurel prefers brighter conditions and whilst it tolerates shade, growth may become slightly more open and leggy in deep shade compared to cherry laurel. For best results, choose positions in sun to light shade.

The shrub is exceptionally hardy throughout the UK (USDA zones 6-9) and tolerates temperatures down to approximately -20°C or lower without damage – this superior cold hardiness is one of Portuguese Laurel's key advantages over cherry laurel. It withstands harsh winters, exposed conditions, and cold winds admirably, making it reliable in Scotland, northern England, upland areas, and exposed sites where cherry laurel might show winter damage.

Portuguese Laurel tolerates urban pollution well and performs excellently in town and city gardens. It also has outstanding tolerance of coastal conditions including salt spray and maritime exposure, making it one of the best evergreen hedging choices for seaside gardens where many alternatives would struggle. The combination of cold hardiness and coastal tolerance makes it particularly versatile.

The plant tolerates root competition reasonably well, though less successfully than cherry laurel in very dry shade beneath trees. It's best suited to open positions or light shade rather than dense woodland conditions.

Planting Instructions

Bare root Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia' should be planted between November and March whilst the plants are dormant and the ground is workable – neither frozen solid nor waterlogged. Upon arrival, unwrap the plants immediately and check the roots are moist. If they appear dry, soak them in a bucket of water for 1-2 hours before planting. Plant as soon as possible after receipt for best establishment.

Spacing: For formal hedging, space plants 60-75 cm apart for a hedge that fills in well within 4-5 years. The slower growth rate compared to cherry laurel means this spacing is appropriate and economical. For a denser hedge that establishes faster, space at 45-60 cm apart (approximately two plants per metre). For topiary or very formal hedging where density is paramount, consider closer spacing at 40-50 cm apart. For specimen shrubs in mixed borders, allow 2-3 metres between plants to accommodate the mature spread.

Dig a trench for hedging (approximately 45-50 cm wide and 35-40 cm deep) or individual holes for specimen planting (twice the width of the root system). Keep the topsoil separate from the subsoil. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the trench or hole thoroughly with a fork to improve drainage – this is particularly important for Portuguese Laurel which dislikes waterlogged conditions more than cherry laurel.

If your soil is heavy clay, significantly improve drainage by incorporating generous amounts of sharp sand or grit along with organic matter. Portuguese Laurel will struggle in poorly drained clay unless drainage is addressed. If your soil is sandy or free-draining (which suits Portuguese Laurel well), incorporate well-rotted compost or manure to improve moisture retention and fertility. Mix in a handful of slow-release fertiliser or bone meal per plant to provide nutrients during establishment.

Position each plant in the trench or hole so that the previous soil mark on the stem sits level with the surrounding ground surface – planting too deep can cause problems, particularly with plants that prefer good drainage. Spread the roots out naturally and evenly.

Backfill with the soil mixture, working it carefully around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Firm gently but thoroughly with your heel as you go – good contact between roots and soil is essential. Once filled to ground level, firm once more and level off.

Water thoroughly after planting – provide at least 10-15 litres per metre of hedging even if the weather is wet. This settles the soil and ensures good root contact.

Apply a 5-7 cm layer of organic mulch such as bark chips, well-rotted compost, or leaf mould along the hedge line or around specimen plants, keeping it 10-15 cm clear of the stems to prevent rot. Mulch helps retain moisture during establishment whilst suppressing weeds.

Care and Maintenance

Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system, providing approximately 10-15 litres per metre of hedging per week during dry spells. Portuguese Laurel doesn't require as much water as cherry laurel once established and actually prefers slightly drier conditions. Once established (typically after 18-24 months), the plant is quite drought-tolerant and requires watering only during prolonged droughts. Over-watering can cause problems, so err on the side of slightly drier rather than too wet.

Feeding: Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser or blood, fish and bone in early spring to encourage healthy growth and maintain the glossy dark green foliage. Portuguese Laurel doesn't require heavy feeding – a light annual feed is sufficient. Top up the mulch layer annually with well-rotted compost, which provides gentle nutrition whilst improving soil structure.

Trimming: For formal hedges, trim once a year in late spring or early summer (late May to June) after flowering if you want to enjoy the blooms, or in late summer (August) if flowering isn't a priority. The slower growth rate (15-30 cm per year) means Portuguese Laurel genuinely requires just one trim annually for most situations – a significant maintenance advantage over faster-growing alternatives that need 2-3 cuts per year.

Use sharp hedge shears or a hedge trimmer for clean cuts. For topiary work or very formal hedging, secateurs can be used to cut individual stems just above leaves for an immaculate finish, though this is time-consuming. Portuguese Laurel's small leaves mean cutting through foliage is less visually problematic than with large-leaved cherry laurel.

After planting, trim the top growth back by about one-quarter to one-third to encourage bushy, dense growth from the base. Portuguese Laurel responds more slowly to hard pruning than cherry laurel, so gentler pruning is preferable initially.

In subsequent years, continue trimming to shape the hedge gradually to the desired height and width. A slight taper (wider at base than top) ensures lower branches receive adequate light.

Portuguese Laurel responds to hard renovation pruning but more slowly than cherry laurel. If an old hedge becomes overgrown or bare, it can be cut back hard in late spring (April-May), but expect recovery to take 2-3 seasons rather than the single season cherry laurel might take. Prevention through regular light trimming is better than cure with Portuguese Laurel.

Pruning for topiary: The dense growth, small leaves, and slow growth rate make Portuguese Laurel outstanding for topiary. Shapes can be clipped 2-3 times during the growing season (May, July, September) to maintain crisp definition.

Mulching: Maintain the mulch layer for the first 3-5 years, topping it up annually. This helps retain moisture during establishment and gradually improves soil structure.

Pest and Disease: Prunus lusitanica is generally very healthy and considerably less prone to problems than cherry laurel. Occasionally affected by:

• Leaf spot: Can cause brown spots but rarely serious. Good air circulation helps prevent it.

• Powdery mildew: Less common than on cherry laurel but possible in poor air circulation. Usually cosmetic.

• Shothole: Occasionally causes small holes in leaves. Not usually serious.

Generally, Portuguese Laurel is remarkably healthy and trouble-free, with notably better disease resistance than cherry laurel. Most plants never experience any significant problems.

Uses in the Garden

Premium Formal Hedging: The primary use for Portuguese Laurel is creating elegant, refined formal hedges at any height from 1-4 metres, providing year-round structure, privacy, and sophisticated beauty that suits the finest gardens.

Topiary: Outstanding for topiary work including balls, cones, spirals, pyramids, and more complex shapes. The dense growth, small leaves, and slow growth make it one of the best topiary plants available – often considered superior to box for larger shapes.

Formal Gardens: Perfect for formal and traditional garden designs where elegance and refinement are paramount. Particularly suitable for period properties, manor houses, and gardens where sophistication matters.

Coastal Gardens: Exceptional salt tolerance makes it one of the best evergreen hedging choices for seaside gardens and coastal properties where maritime exposure would damage many alternatives.

Cold Gardens: Superior cold hardiness makes it ideal for Scotland, northern England, upland areas, and exposed sites where cherry laurel might suffer winter damage.

Entrance Planting: The sophisticated appearance makes it perfect for framing entrances, gates, and driveways where first impressions matter.

Parterre and Knot Gardens: The fine texture and excellent response to clipping make it ideal for parterre designs and knot gardens requiring precise, formal hedging.

Standards and Specimens: Can be trained as attractive standard trees with clear stems and clipped heads for formal effects in containers or borders.

Container Planting: Excellent in large containers for patios, terraces, and formal entrances, where it can be clipped into formal shapes or maintained as elegant specimens.

Background Planting: Provides a refined, very dark green backdrop for borders that's more sophisticated than cherry laurel's bolder appearance.

Boundary Hedging: Creates permanent, elegant boundary hedging that's less vigorous and more manageable than cherry laurel whilst still providing privacy and structure.

Advantages of Portuguese Laurel

Superior elegance: Small, neat leaves and refined appearance create sophisticated hedging that's more elegant than cherry laurel's bold, large-leaved character.

Exceptional cold hardiness: Tolerates temperatures to -20°C or lower, making it more reliable than cherry laurel in cold areas, exposed sites, and harsh winters.

Outstanding coastal tolerance: Excellent salt and wind tolerance makes it one of the best evergreen hedges for seaside gardens where maritime exposure is challenging.

Slower, more manageable growth: At 15-30 cm per year, requires just one trim annually rather than 2-3, making it genuinely lower maintenance than faster alternatives.

Attractive red stems: The burgundy-red leaf stalks and young stems create beautiful colour contrast against dark green foliage.

Better disease resistance: Notably healthier and less prone to problems than cherry laurel, with excellent natural disease resistance.

Excellent for topiary: Dense growth, small leaves, and slow growth make it outstanding for topiary work – often preferred over box for larger shapes.

Refined flowering: Elegant white flower spikes in early summer are more refined and later than cherry laurel, adding sophisticated seasonal interest.

Drought tolerant: Better tolerance of dry conditions than cherry laurel once established, making it suitable for free-draining soils.

Premium quality: Widely regarded as the finest evergreen hedging plant available – the choice for discerning gardeners and prestigious properties.

Versatile: Suitable for formal hedging, topiary, specimens, containers, coastal gardens, and cold areas.

Portuguese Laurel vs Cherry Laurel

Understanding the differences helps choose the right laurel for your situation:

Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica):

• Small neat leaves (6-10 cm), refined texture

• Slow growth (15-30 cm/year), one trim per year

• Superior cold tolerance (-20°C)

• Excellent coastal tolerance

• More elegant, sophisticated appearance

• Better for topiary and formal gardens

• Prefers sun to light shade

• More expensive but lower maintenance

• Better disease resistance

• Requires good drainage

Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus):

• Large bold leaves (15-25 cm), substantial texture

• Fast growth (30-60 cm/year), two trims per year

• Good cold tolerance (-15°C)

• Moderate coastal tolerance

• Bold, luxuriant appearance

• Better for rapid screening

• Excellent shade tolerance

• Less expensive, faster results

• Can have disease issues

• Tolerates poor drainage better

Choose Portuguese Laurel if: You want refined elegance, lower maintenance, topiary potential, superior cold/coastal tolerance, or have well-drained soil and can be patient with slower establishment.

Choose Cherry Laurel if: You want fast screening, need excellent shade tolerance, prefer bold foliage, have heavy clay soil, or need budget-friendly rapid results.

Companion Planting

Portuguese Laurel's refined dark green foliage provides an excellent sophisticated backdrop:

Formal combinations:

• Box balls and low box hedging for varied evergreen structure

• Standard roses with Portuguese Laurel hedging for classic formal effects

• Lavender for cottage garden charm with formal structure

• White flowers (roses, phlox, delphiniums) for elegant contrast

• Clipped yew topiary for textural variation with similar refinement

Colour combinations:

• Silver-leaved plants (artemisia, stachys, santolina) for sophisticated cool schemes

• Pastels and soft colours that suit the refined character

• Deep purples and burgundies that complement the red stems

• White and cream flowers that stand out against dark foliage

Mixed planting:

• Spring bulbs around hedge bases for seasonal colour

• Shade-tolerant perennials in light shade of hedges

• Climbing roses or clematis trained against hedges

• Ornamental grasses for contrasting texture

• Hydrangeas for summer interest in partial shade

The very dark, almost black-green foliage creates dramatic contrast and makes colours appear more vibrant whilst providing sophisticated structure.

Seasonal Interest

Spring: Fresh new growth emerges with pronounced burgundy-red colouration on stems and leaf stalks, creating attractive contrast against older dark green foliage. Growth is moderate and steady rather than explosive.

Early Summer: Elegant white flower spikes appear in June, creating a refined frothy display quite different from cherry laurel's earlier, bolder flowers. The sweetly fragrant blooms are covered with bees and beneficial insects. This is Portuguese Laurel's season of greatest ornamental drama.

Late Summer: Dense, glossy, very dark green foliage provides substantial presence and sophisticated structure. Small berries ripen from red to purple-black if flowering wasn't prevented, adding subtle seasonal interest.

Autumn: The evergreen foliage continues providing structure as deciduous plants fade. The very dark colour creates dramatic contrast with autumn tints.

Winter: The evergreen nature truly shines, providing essential year-round structure and sophisticated dark green presence. The glossy leaves look particularly impressive in winter light or when rimmed with frost. The superior cold tolerance means Portuguese Laurel maintains excellent appearance through harsh winters that might damage cherry laurel. The red stems add subtle winter colour interest.

Special Considerations

Slower establishment: Be patient – Portuguese Laurel takes longer to create substantial hedges than cherry laurel (4-5 years vs 3-4 years). The quality and lower maintenance compensate for the slower start.

Drainage requirements: Unlike cherry laurel which tolerates poor drainage, Portuguese Laurel requires good drainage. Don't plant in waterlogged clay without significant drainage improvement.

Less shade tolerant: Whilst tolerating shade, Portuguese Laurel performs best in sun to light shade. For deep shade, cherry laurel is better.

Cost: More expensive than cherry laurel due to slower growth and premium status, but the elegance, lower maintenance, and superior qualities justify the investment.

Toxicity: Like all Prunus laurocerasus species, all parts are toxic if ingested, containing cyanogenic glycosides. The leaves, stems, and fruits can cause stomach upset in humans and pets. The seeds are particularly toxic. Plant with care around young children or pets who might chew vegetation. The foliage releases hydrogen cyanide when damaged (almond-like smell), harmless in normal garden situations but avoid composting large quantities in enclosed spaces.

Recovery from hard pruning: Slower to regenerate than cherry laurel if cut back hard, so prevention through regular light trimming is preferable to neglect and drastic renovation.

Best for refinement not speed: Choose Portuguese Laurel for quality, elegance, and sophistication, not for rapid screening. If speed is the priority, cherry laurel is more appropriate.

Top Tips for Success

• Best choice for elegant, refined hedging with superior cold and coastal tolerance

• Perfect for topiary work – often preferred over box for larger shapes

• Plant at 60-75 cm spacing for formal hedging (closer for topiary)

• Requires good drainage – improve clay soils significantly before planting

• Prefers sun to light shade rather than deep shade

• Trim just once per year after flowering – genuinely low maintenance

• Outstanding for coastal gardens with exceptional salt tolerance

• Ideal for cold areas with superior winter hardiness to -20°C

• More expensive than cherry laurel but quality justifies investment

• Be patient – takes 4-5 years to create substantial hedges but worth the wait

• Water moderately during establishment – prefers slightly drier than cherry laurel

• Perfect for formal gardens, topiary, and sophisticated planting schemes

• All parts toxic – keep away from children and pets

• Considerably healthier and more disease-resistant than cherry laurel

Create sophisticated, elegant evergreen hedging with Portuguese Laurel bare root – the premium choice combining refined small dark leaves, attractive red stems, and slow manageable growth with exceptional cold hardiness and coastal tolerance. Perfect for discerning gardeners throughout Britain seeking the finest quality formal hedging, topiary potential, and timeless elegance that requires just one trim per year whilst providing year-round sophisticated structure and beauty that cherry laurel cannot match.