{"title":"Cherry Laurel","description":"\u003cp\u003eExplore our cherry laurel collection and find the perfect variety for your privacy needs.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"carolina-cherry-laurel-prunus-caroliniana","title":"Prunus Caroliniana Compacta (Carolina Cherry Laurel)","description":"\u003ch2\u003eThe Perfect Privacy Screen That Grows Fast and Stays Green Year-Round\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarolina cherry laurel is a fast-growing native evergreen tree that delivers dense, year-round screening without the years-long wait that comes with slower-growing alternatives. This broadleaf evergreen reaches up to 20 feet tall in compact form and fills in rapidly-growing 2–3 feet per year under favorable conditions-creating a lush, impenetrable privacy wall in just a couple of seasons. Native to the southeastern United States from coastal North Carolina through central Florida and west to Texas, \u003cem\u003ePrunus caroliniana\u003c\/em\u003e thrives across California's mild climates, making it one of the smartest choices for homeowners who want fast, beautiful, and low-maintenance privacy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy You'll Love It\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFast Privacy\u003c\/strong\u003e – This upright evergreen shrub puts on 2–3 feet of height annually, filling gaps and creating a solid screen far faster than most evergreen hedging options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYear-Round Beauty\u003c\/strong\u003e – Dark green leaves stay glossy and dense through every season, with leaves 2 to 4 inches long that emit a cherry-like fragrance when crushed-reminiscent of maraschino cherries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow Maintenance\u003c\/strong\u003e – Prunus caroliniana is \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/blogs\/news\/best-privacy-bushes-top-varieties-for-your-secluded-sanctuary\"\u003edrought tolerant\u003c\/a\u003e once established, requiring minimal supplemental irrigation after the first year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFragrant Blooms\u003c\/strong\u003e – Carolina cherry-laurel blooms with small, fragrant white flowers in late winter to early spring, providing a valuable nectar source for early spring pollinators including bees and butterflies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVersatile Form\u003c\/strong\u003e – Grow it as a dense hedge, a natural windbreak, or train it as a specimen plant or small tree-this species adapts to whatever shape your landscape demands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat Makes It Different\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost privacy plants force you into a compromise. Slow-growing evergreens like holly take years to reach useful height. Fast-growing deciduous options like poplars lose their leaves-and your privacy-every winter. Non-native species like \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/blogs\/news\/english-laurel-hedge-everything-you-should-know\"\u003eEnglish laurel\u003c\/a\u003e can become invasive and offer less ecological value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCarolina cherry laurel\u003c\/strong\u003e offers:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDense Growth Pattern\u003c\/strong\u003e – The naturally thick branching habit and glossy, oblong foliage create a full visual barrier without the sparse, twiggy gaps common in other hedging shrubs. Green twigs fill in quickly between branches for seamless coverage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCalifornia Climate Adapted\u003c\/strong\u003e – Carolina cherry-laurel generally thrives in \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prunus_caroliniana\"\u003eUSDA Zones 7–10\u003c\/a\u003e, handling drought, heat, and even moderate coastal salt exposure. It tolerates clay, sand, and loam soils-practically any well drained soil you have.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMulti-Season Interest\u003c\/strong\u003e – Beyond year-round evergreen screening, this plant delivers fragrant spring flowers from February through April, followed by shiny black drupes (1\/3 to 1\/2 inch long) that persist into winter and attract songbirds, small mammals, and other wildlife. It even serves as a host plant for several butterfly species including Eastern Tiger Swallowtail and Red-spotted Purple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow To Grow Prunus Caroliniana Successfully In Your Landscape\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant in Row\u003c\/strong\u003e Space plants 6–8 feet apart for a dense hedge or privacy screen that fills in quickly. For a standalone screening tree or specimen plant, allow 10–12 feet between plantings to accommodate the mature spread of 15–25 feet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEstablish Roots\u003c\/strong\u003e Water regularly during the first year to develop a deep, resilient root system. Deep watering rather than frequent shallow irrigation promotes stronger drought resilience. After establishment, this plant becomes drought tolerant and needs only occasional supplemental water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnjoy Growth\u003c\/strong\u003e Watch as your Carolina cherry laurel fills in to create a solid, living privacy wall. Within 2–3 years, you'll have a lush, impenetrable screen that stays green 365 days a year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant Details\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMature Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prunus caroliniana grows 20 feet tall in compact form; can reach 20–30 ft with a 15–25 ft spread in open landscape settings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Rate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fast - 2–3 feet per year in California climates; up to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/plantnative.org\/native-plants\/cherry-laurel-prunus-caroliniana.htm\"\u003e4 feet per year in high-moisture native range areas\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHardiness Zones:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7–10 (ideal for California)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSun Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e This plant thrives in full sun to full shade, with best density and flowering in full sun; acceptable in partial shade\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil Needs:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prefers well-drained soil; highly adaptable to clay, sand, and loam. Avoid waterlogged conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Low to moderate once established. Over-irrigation can cause chlorosis and death-or root rot in container plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBark:\u003c\/strong\u003e Reddish brown when young, smooth, darkening with age to gray\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlowers:\u003c\/strong\u003e White, fragrant, creamy-white racemes that appear in late winter to early spring\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shiny black drupe, 1\/3 to 1\/2 inch long, eaten by birds and small mammals\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark green, glossy, dense leaves that produce a scent reminiscent of maraschino cherries when crushed\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHomeowners seeking fast-growing privacy\u003c\/strong\u003e screening from neighbors, streets, or unsightly views\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProperty owners wanting year-round evergreen beauty\u003c\/strong\u003e with minimal maintenance and no winter leaf drop\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGarden enthusiasts\u003c\/strong\u003e looking for California-friendly plants that support local wildlife-the flowers of Carolina cherry-laurel are a valuable nectar source for early spring pollinators, and it attracts bees and birds with its flowers and fruit\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAnyone needing windbreak protection\u003c\/strong\u003e or noise reduction, or wanting to naturalize property borders with a beautiful, low-effort \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/collections\/tall-evergreen-hedging-plants-for-sale\"\u003etall evergreen hedge\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want dense, fast, year-round privacy that also supports pollinators and wildlife, this plant fits your needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow fast does Carolina Cherry Laurel grow?\u003c\/strong\u003e Under favorable California conditions with full sun and well drained soil, expect \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/blogs\/news\/carolina-laurel-cherry-growth-rate-prunus-caroliniana\"\u003e1–2 feet of new growth per year\u003c\/a\u003e, with some plants pushing 2–3 feet annually in optimal microclimates. In its native deep south range where humidity and moisture are higher, growth can reach 2–4 feet per year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes it need much water in California?\u003c\/strong\u003e Prunus caroliniana is drought-tolerant once established-typically after the first 1–2 years of regular watering. During establishment, water deeply and consistently. After that, low to moderate irrigation is sufficient. Be careful not to overwater: over-irrigation can cause chlorosis and death, and root rot in container plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCan I keep it as a hedge or does it have to grow tall?\u003c\/strong\u003e Carolina cherry-laurel can tolerate heavy pruning, making it excellent for formal hedges where you want to control size and shape. You can maintain it at virtually any height. Alternatively, let it grow naturally into a pyramidal or rounded small tree up to 20–30 feet tall. Prune in late winter or just after flowering for best results.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill it attract bees and birds to my yard?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely. The fragrant spring flowers are highly attractive to bees and other early-season pollinators at a time when few other plants are blooming. The shiny black fruits ripen in late summer through fall and persist into winter, drawing songbirds, quail, wild turkey, and small mammals like raccoons and foxes. The dense foliage also provides nesting cover and thermal shelter for birds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat spacing do I need for a privacy hedge?\u003c\/strong\u003e For a dense privacy hedge that interlocks quickly, space plants 6–8 feet apart. For specimen trees or a more open screening effect, allow 10–12 feet between plantings. Tighter spacing of 3–5 feet can be used for formal, tightly sheared hedges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre there any concerns I should know about?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes-bitter leaves and twigs are potentially poisonous due to cyanogenic glycosides, so exercise caution around children, pets, and livestock. The plant can become weedy in certain environments if left unmanaged, as Carolina cherry-laurel can naturalize in suburban fencerows and along property lines due to prolific seed spread. Seedlings may sprout beneath parent plants and bird perching sites. Prunus caroliniana is also susceptible to verticillium wilt, and common pests include mites, borers, and caterpillars. Leaf spot, fire-blight, and stem canker are common diseases, particularly when plants are stressed by poor drainage or overwatering. It can be used for naturalizing in low-maintenance gardens where some self-seeding is welcome.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eReady to Create Your Privacy Paradise?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCarolina cherry laurel delivers fast, dense, evergreen privacy backed by fragrant blooms and genuine wildlife value-all perfectly suited to California's climate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhether you're building a formal hedge, a natural windbreak, or planting a stunning specimen plant, we're here to help you choose the right size and quantity for your project. Explore our full collection of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/collections\/tall-evergreen-hedging-plants-for-sale\"\u003eprivacy hedging plants\u003c\/a\u003e or compare alternatives like \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/leyland-cypress-cupressocyparis-leylandii\"\u003eLeyland Cypress\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/fern-pine-tree-podocarpus-gracilior\"\u003ePodocarpus\u003c\/a\u003e to find the perfect fit.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yardwork Nursery","offers":[{"title":"15-Gallon","offer_id":38070086795437,"sku":"","price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"24\" Box","offer_id":38070086828205,"sku":"","price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"36\" Box","offer_id":38070086860973,"sku":"","price":1850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"24” Box Standard","offer_id":42067005374637,"sku":"","price":1150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"36\" Box Standard","offer_id":42474661216429,"sku":"","price":2150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/8809\/6429\/products\/carolina-cherry-laurel-prunus-caroliniana-pulled-nursery-1.jpg?v=1707262815"},{"product_id":"english-laurel-prunus-laurocerasus-1","title":"English Laurel - Prunus Laurocerasus","description":"\u003ch2\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEnglish Laurel is an evergreen shrub with broad and leathery, rich green leaves,\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt has small spikes of fragrant, creamy-white flower followed by small black fruits. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"product-custom-fields\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKnown botanically as Prunus Laurocerasus, English Laurel is a popular choice for landscaping due to its evergreen foliage and fragrant flowers. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its dense growth and versatility, it makes a great hedge or screen. Thriving in full sun or partial shade, this beautiful plant adds texture and elegance to any outdoor space.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Pulled Home","offers":[{"title":"15 Gallon Column","offer_id":42070093037741,"sku":"","price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"15 Gallon Standard","offer_id":42070093070509,"sku":"","price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"24\" Box\/25 Gallon","offer_id":42070093103277,"sku":"","price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"15 Gallon","offer_id":42070093136045,"sku":"","price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 Gallon","offer_id":42399372607661,"sku":"","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Otto Luyken 5 Gallon","offer_id":42399372640429,"sku":"","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Schipkaensis 20 Gallon","offer_id":42399373000877,"sku":"","price":695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Schipkaensis 25 Gallon","offer_id":42399373066413,"sku":"","price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"36\" Box Laurocerasus","offer_id":42459414331565,"sku":"","price":2150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"30” Box","offer_id":42768035086509,"sku":"","price":1950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/8809\/6429\/products\/PrunusLaurocerasus243.5.jpg?v=1707261823"},{"product_id":"catalina-cherry-prunus-ilicifolia-ssp-lyonii","title":"Catalina Cherry - Prunus ilicifolia ssp. lyonii","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCatalina Cherry is an evergreen shrub with glossy green leaves and spikes of fragrant, creamy-white flower followed by purple to black, cherry-like fruits. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIt does well in \u003c\/span\u003eUSDA Zones 7 - 10, reaching a mature height and width of 15-20 feet with low to moderate water needs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-custom-fields\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Pulled Home","offers":[{"title":"24\" Box","offer_id":42070096773293,"sku":"","price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"15 Gallon","offer_id":42399371886765,"sku":"","price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/8809\/6429\/products\/prunusilicifolialyonii__67827.jpg?v=1707261810"},{"product_id":"skip-laurel-prunus-laurocerasus-schipkaensis","title":"Skip Laurel - Prunus laurocerasus Schipkaensis","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCreate Year-Round Privacy with Dense Evergreen Screening\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSkip Laurel gives you a fast, polished privacy screen with glossy evergreen foliage that stays dense, dark green, and attractive year round.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as Schip Laurel, Schipka Laurel, Skipka Laurel, or \u003cem\u003ePrunus laurocerasus\u003c\/em\u003e ‘Schipkaensis’, this evergreen shrub is a refined type of cherry laurel valued for its upright habit, narrow leaves, and dependable coverage. Use it as a skip laurel hedge along property lines, a formal laurel hedge near an entry, or a dense \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/collections\/evergreen-trees\"\u003eevergreen backdrop in a mixed landscape\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDesigned to help you create privacy without seasonal gaps, Skip Laurel brings structure, shade tolerance, fragrant white spring flowers, and a professional garden finish to residential and commercial spaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy You’ll Love Skip Laurel\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYear-round privacy\u003c\/strong\u003e – Dense evergreen foliage remains vibrant through winter, giving your landscape coverage when deciduous trees and shrubs are bare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFast privacy results\u003c\/strong\u003e – Schip laurel can grow up to two feet per year, making it a fast-growing option for creating a dense privacy screen; many customers maintain it at 6–8 feet for a practical privacy hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeasonal beauty\u003c\/strong\u003e – In late spring, Schip Laurel produces clusters of small, fragrant white flowers; these fragrant flowers and upright flower spikes add charm and support pollinators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLow maintenance once established\u003c\/strong\u003e – Once established, Schip laurel requires minimal maintenance, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners who want dense growth without constant attention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDeer resistant performance\u003c\/strong\u003e – Mature plants are considered deer resistant compared to many privacy plants, though new plants and tender new growth may still need protection in high-pressure areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe medium-sized, glossy evergreen foliage of Schip Laurel creates a lush, layered appearance that enhances gardens, foundation plantings, and formal hedge designs. Its glossy, dark green leaves remain vibrant throughout all seasons, providing a polished look to landscapes and enhancing privacy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat Makes Skip Laurel Different\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost alternatives focus on height alone. Leyland cypress can become too tall and wide, bamboo may be difficult to contain and is sometimes considered invasive, and many conifers such as \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/fern-pine-podocarpus-gracilior\"\u003eFern Pine hedges\u003c\/a\u003e can still struggle in shade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSkip Laurel\u003c\/strong\u003e has:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRefined broadleaf texture\u003c\/strong\u003e – Glossy, narrow leaves give this shrub a cleaner, more elegant look than coarser evergreen screens like \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/indian-laurel-tree-ficus-microcarpa-nitida\"\u003eIndian Laurel privacy hedges\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBetter light flexibility\u003c\/strong\u003e – This shrub prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial to full shade, making it versatile for various planting locations where other evergreens struggle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePrunable structure\u003c\/strong\u003e – Skip Laurel responds well to heavy pruning to maintain a specific height or shape, ideally pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eReliable hedge habit\u003c\/strong\u003e – The dense, upright habit of Skip Laurel makes it a popular choice for creating living walls for privacy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCold-hardy usefulness\u003c\/strong\u003e – Best suited for USDA hardiness zone 6–8 landscapes, Skip Laurel handles winter better than many broadleaf evergreens such as \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/blogs\/news\/english-laurel-hedge-everything-you-should-know\"\u003eEnglish Laurel hedges\u003c\/a\u003e when planted in a protected, well-drained site.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSchip Laurel thrives best in moist, well-drained soil with a higher organic content and is tolerant of a range of soil acidity, similar to other broadleaf hedge choices like \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/carolina-cherry-laurel-prunus-caroliniana\"\u003eCarolina Cherry Laurel\u003c\/a\u003e. Avoid poor drainage: Skip Laurel is sensitive to waterlogged roots, which can lead to yellowing or root rot, requiring well-draining soil for long-term health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHow Skip Laurel Transforms Your Space\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlant for the privacy style you want\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor a continuous privacy hedge, medium-sized Skip Laurel specimens should be spaced about 3 to 4 feet apart. For a looser natural screen with enough space between mature shrubs, plant 6–8 feet apart. Dig a planting hole wide enough for the root ball, set the plant so the root flare is level with or slightly above ground level, and backfill with surrounding soil improved with compost if needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLet dense growth fill in naturally\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith sun to partial shade, steady moisture, mulch, and well drained soil, Schip Laurel can grow up to two feet per year. Its upright branches and dense foliage typically knit together into a strong privacy screen within 2–3 growing seasons, especially when new plants are watered deeply during establishment, or when combined with other \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.useyardwork.com\/\"\u003epopular privacy trees and shrubs\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaintain the height and shape you prefer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eKeep a formal skip laurel hedge clipped, or allow the shrub to grow into a softer natural screen. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, then lightly shape after flowering if needed. Skip Laurel does not require heavy fertilization; a light application of balanced, organic fertilizer is sufficient in early spring to encourage new growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe result is a dense screen that can be maintained around 6–8 feet for everyday privacy, while mature Schip laurel plants typically reach heights of 10–15 feet and widths of 6–12 feet, depending on the cultivar and pruning style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePlant Details\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBotanical Name: \u003cem\u003ePrunus laurocerasus\u003c\/em\u003e ‘Schipkaensis’\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCommon Names: Skip Laurel, Schip Laurel, Schipka Laurel, Skipka Laurel, Schipka Cherry Laurel; a cousin to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/sweet-bay-laurus-nobilis-2\"\u003eBay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlant Type: Broadleaf evergreen shrub closely related to \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/english-laurel-prunus-laurocerasus-1\"\u003eEnglish Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTypical Maintained Hedge Size: 6–8 feet tall, 4–6 feet wide\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMature Potential: Mature Schip laurel plants typically reach heights of 10–15 feet and widths of 6–12 feet, depending on the cultivar\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGrowth Rate: Fast; Schip laurel can grow up to two feet per year, making it an excellent choice for quickly establishing a dense privacy screen\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLight Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of full shade, though density is best with some sun\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoil Preferences: Moist, well drained soil with higher organic content; adaptable to many soil types and a range of soil acidity, similar to other evergreen shrubs like \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/glossy-privet-ligustrum-lucidum\"\u003eGlossy Privet (Ligustrum lucidum)\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDrainage Needs: Requires good soil drainage; poor drainage and waterlogged roots can cause yellowing, root rot, and other plant problems\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBloom Time: Late spring fragrant white flower clusters, often followed by ornamental fruit that may pass through a red berries stage before darkening\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHardiness Zone: Best in USDA zones 6–8\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaintenance: Low maintenance once established; prune to control size, shape the hedge, and remove damaged leaves or branches\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWatering: Water deeply after planting and during dry periods; established plants become more drought tolerant but still perform best with consistent moisture, much like fruiting trees such as the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/products\/pomegranate-tree\"\u003ePomegranate tree\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFertilizer: Light balanced organic fertilizer in early spring is enough; heavy fertilization is not required\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWho Skip Laurel Is Perfect For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeal for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHomeowners needing a privacy hedge or privacy screen along property lines\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGardeners who want a low maintenance evergreen foundation planting\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLandscapers creating formal hedge designs, living walls, or structured garden borders\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnyone seeking year round evergreen structure in a mixed landscape\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProperties with partial shade, full shade edges, or filtered sun where other evergreens may thin out\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCustomers who want an excellent privacy hedge with dark green foliage, fragrant white flowers, and dense upright growth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want a fast-growing evergreen shrub that looks polished in full sun to partial shade, Skip Laurel fits beautifully. It is especially useful where you want the lush look of laurel, the structure of a hedge, and the flexibility to prune for a specific height or natural shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow fast does skip laurel grow?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSchip laurel can grow up to two feet per year in good conditions. With moist, well-drained soil, mulch, and regular watering during establishment, a skip laurel hedge can become a dense screen within 2–3 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow far apart should I plant skip laurel for a hedge?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor continuous privacy hedges, medium-sized Skip Laurel specimens should be spaced about 3 to 4 feet apart. For a more natural laurel hedge with more airflow and enough space for mature growth, 6–8 feet apart can work well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhen is the best time to plant skip laurel?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEarly spring and fall are the best planting windows. When planting Schip Laurel, set the root flare level with or slightly above ground level, keep the root ball stable, backfill with surrounding soil, and water deeply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDoes skip laurel need regular pruning?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSkip Laurel responds well to heavy pruning when you need to control size or maintain a specific shape. For best results, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins, then lightly trim after flowering if you want a tighter formal hedge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWill skip laurel survive California’s climate?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes, Skip Laurel can perform well in many California landscapes, especially where it receives sun to partial shade and has good soil drainage. In hotter inland areas, protect it from harsh afternoon sun and avoid waterlogged roots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eReady to Create Your Privacy Paradise?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStop settling for bare fences, seasonal gaps, or privacy plants that outgrow the space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChoose \u003cstrong\u003eSkip Laurel\u003c\/strong\u003e for glossy evergreen foliage, dense growth, fragrant white spring flowers, and a refined year-round screen that can be shaped into a formal hedge or grown as a natural evergreen backdrop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNeed help planning a large privacy project? Yardwork can help with plant selection, spacing, delivery options, and consultation for larger hedge installations.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Yardwork Nursery","offers":[{"title":"15 Gallon","offer_id":46018608922797,"sku":null,"price":395.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"25 Gallon","offer_id":46018608955565,"sku":null,"price":1150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/8809\/6429\/files\/PrunusSchipkaensis.jpg?v=1778995119"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/8809\/6429\/collections\/carolina-cherry-laurel-prunus-caroliniana-pulled-nursery-1.jpg?v=1782188792","url":"https:\/\/useyardwork.com\/collections\/cherry-laurel.oembed","provider":"Yardwork","version":"1.0","type":"link"}