Common name: Cherry Laurel

Description: Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia' is the most widely planted cherry laurel for hedging in the UK, and for very good reason. Its fast-growing, dense, upright habit produces large, broadly oval, highly glossy deep green leaves that create an excellent year-round screen. In spring, it bears spikes of small white flowers attracting bees, followed by small black berries in autumn that are eagerly eaten by birds. Adaptable to most soils and aspects including heavy shade, it is the definitive evergreen hedging plant for UK gardens.

Other benefits: the most popular evergreen hedge — fast-growing, dense, very adaptable, provides wildlife food and cover

Wildlife attraction: bees visit the flowers; blackbirds, thrushes, and wood pigeons eat the berries

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 5m x 4m (unclipped)

Position: full sun to full shade

Soil pH: neutral; adaptable

Moisture: moist but well-drained; tolerates dry shade once established

Winter hardiness: cold hardy to -20°C