Carolina Laurelcherry
Prunus caroliniana
Also listed as Achras serrata, Arbutus lanceolata
Also known as Cherry Laurel, Laurel Cherry
Climate Match for your location
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A semi-tropical evergreen tree with glossy foliage and fragrant small white flowers in spring, followed by dark berries attractive to birds. Hardy and adaptable, it serves well as a screening plant or specimen tree in warm regions.
Why grow it
Carolina laurelcherry offers screening and specimen qualities comparable to other evergreen ornamentals, with the added advantage of spring flowering and bird-attracting fruit. Where winters remain mild, it establishes readily with minimal inputs and tolerates a range of soil conditions, making it useful for landscaping in zones 8 and warmer without the maintenance demands of some deciduous alternatives.
Watch out for
This tree responds well to pruning but can develop a dense, leggy habit if crowded or shaded, requiring attention to air circulation and form in tight plantings. Young trees may need supplemental water during establishment, particularly in drier climates within its range.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southeastern United States
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
A semi-tropical evergreen tree with glossy foliage and fragrant small white flowers in spring, followed by dark berries attractive to birds. Hardy and adaptable, it serves well as a screening plant or specimen tree in warm regions.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Carolina Laurelcherry grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Carolina laurelcherry offers screening and specimen qualities comparable to other evergreen ornamentals, with the added advantage of spring flowering and bird-attracting fruit. Where winters remain mild, it establishes readily with minimal inputs and tolerates a range of soil conditions, making it useful for landscaping in zones 8 and warmer without the maintenance demands of some deciduous alternatives.
Watch out for
This tree responds well to pruning but can develop a dense, leggy habit if crowded or shaded, requiring attention to air circulation and form in tight plantings. Young trees may need supplemental water during establishment, particularly in drier climates within its range.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Rosaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Southeastern United States
Native to: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas
Seasonality
Bloom Season
Season of Interest
Canopy
The tallest trees that form the overstory.
Sub-canopy
Smaller trees living beneath the canopy.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Similar sub-canopy trees you might consider:
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