Carolina Cherry Laurel
Prunus caroliniana · Evergreen Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Rosaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Shade Tree / Screen
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species type (no specific named cultivar)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 7 through 10, tolerating mild to moderate winter freezes and summer heat.
About This Tree
An upright, dense, multi-stemmed or single-trunked evergreen tree with a rounded to oval canopy. It has a moderate to fast growth rate and is frequently used as a privacy screen or hedge.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, lanceolate to oblong-elliptic leaves, 2 to 4 inches long, with smooth or finely serrated margins. Dark glossy green above, paler beneath, emitting a slight cherry-like aroma when crushed.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth, dark reddish-brown to gray bark on younger stems, becoming slightly rougher, darker, and marked with light grey lichen patches and lenticels as the tree matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to the southeastern United States, well-adapted to coastal plains and lowlands from North Carolina to Texas and Florida.
Growing Season
Evergreen with year-round foliage; produces small creamy-white flowers in early to mid-spring followed by small black drupes in late summer and autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, well-drained soils but exhibits good drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Reaches a mature height of 20 to 35 feet with a spread of 15 to 25 feet. Moderate growth rate with a lifespan typically ranging from 30 to 50 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued as a dense privacy screen, windbreak, and ornamental landscape tree. Responds exceptionally well to heavy pruning and shaping. Foliage contains cyanogenic glycosides which can be toxic to livestock if ingested in large quantities.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides dense nesting cover and protection for numerous bird species. Flowers attract early-season pollinators, and the small black fruits are readily consumed by birds and small mammals.