Prunus Caroliniana Compacta (Carolina Cherry Laurel)
Regular price
$295.00
Size
The Perfect Privacy Screen That Grows Fast and Stays Green Year-Round
Carolina 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, Prunus caroliniana thrives across California's mild climates, making it one of the smartest choices for homeowners who want fast, beautiful, and low-maintenance privacy.
Why You'll Love It
-
Fast Privacy – 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.
-
Year-Round Beauty – 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.
-
Low Maintenance – Prunus caroliniana is drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental irrigation after the first year.
-
Fragrant Blooms – 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.
-
Versatile Form – 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.
What Makes It Different
Most 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 English laurel can become invasive and offer less ecological value.
Carolina cherry laurel offers:
-
Dense Growth Pattern – 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.
-
California Climate Adapted – Carolina cherry-laurel generally thrives in USDA Zones 7–10, handling drought, heat, and even moderate coastal salt exposure. It tolerates clay, sand, and loam soils-practically any well drained soil you have.
-
Multi-Season Interest – 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.
How To Grow Prunus Caroliniana Successfully In Your Landscape
-
Plant in Row 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.
-
Establish Roots 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.
-
Enjoy Growth 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.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: Prunus caroliniana grows 20 feet tall in compact form; can reach 20–30 ft with a 15–25 ft spread in open landscape settings
-
Growth Rate: Fast - 2–3 feet per year in California climates; up to 4 feet per year in high-moisture native range areas
-
Hardiness Zones: 7–10 (ideal for California)
-
Sun Requirements: This plant thrives in full sun to full shade, with best density and flowering in full sun; acceptable in partial shade
-
Soil Needs: Prefers well-drained soil; highly adaptable to clay, sand, and loam. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
-
Water Requirements: Low to moderate once established. Over-irrigation can cause chlorosis and death-or root rot in container plants.
-
Bark: Reddish brown when young, smooth, darkening with age to gray
-
Flowers: White, fragrant, creamy-white racemes that appear in late winter to early spring
-
Fruit: Shiny black drupe, 1/3 to 1/2 inch long, eaten by birds and small mammals
-
Foliage: Dark green, glossy, dense leaves that produce a scent reminiscent of maraschino cherries when crushed
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast-growing privacy screening from neighbors, streets, or unsightly views
-
Property owners wanting year-round evergreen beauty with minimal maintenance and no winter leaf drop
-
Garden enthusiasts 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
-
Anyone needing windbreak protection or noise reduction, or wanting to naturalize property borders with a beautiful, low-effort tall evergreen hedge
If you want dense, fast, year-round privacy that also supports pollinators and wildlife, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Carolina Cherry Laurel grow? Under favorable California conditions with full sun and well drained soil, expect 1–2 feet of new growth per year, 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.
Does it need much water in California? 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.
Can I keep it as a hedge or does it have to grow tall? 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.
Will it attract bees and birds to my yard? 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.
What spacing do I need for a privacy hedge? 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.
Are there any concerns I should know about? 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.
Ready to Create Your Privacy Paradise?
Carolina cherry laurel delivers fast, dense, evergreen privacy backed by fragrant blooms and genuine wildlife value-all perfectly suited to California's climate.
Whether 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 privacy hedging plants or compare alternatives like Leyland Cypress and Podocarpus to find the perfect fit.
The Perfect Privacy Screen That Grows Fast and Stays Green Year-Round
Carolina 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, Prunus caroliniana thrives across California's mild climates, making it one of the smartest choices for homeowners who want fast, beautiful, and low-maintenance privacy.
Why You'll Love It
-
Fast Privacy – 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.
-
Year-Round Beauty – 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.
-
Low Maintenance – Prunus caroliniana is drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental irrigation after the first year.
-
Fragrant Blooms – 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.
-
Versatile Form – 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.
What Makes It Different
Most 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 English laurel can become invasive and offer less ecological value.
Carolina cherry laurel offers:
-
Dense Growth Pattern – 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.
-
California Climate Adapted – Carolina cherry-laurel generally thrives in USDA Zones 7–10, handling drought, heat, and even moderate coastal salt exposure. It tolerates clay, sand, and loam soils-practically any well drained soil you have.
-
Multi-Season Interest – 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.
How To Grow Prunus Caroliniana Successfully In Your Landscape
-
Plant in Row 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.
-
Establish Roots 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.
-
Enjoy Growth 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.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: Prunus caroliniana grows 20 feet tall in compact form; can reach 20–30 ft with a 15–25 ft spread in open landscape settings
-
Growth Rate: Fast - 2–3 feet per year in California climates; up to 4 feet per year in high-moisture native range areas
-
Hardiness Zones: 7–10 (ideal for California)
-
Sun Requirements: This plant thrives in full sun to full shade, with best density and flowering in full sun; acceptable in partial shade
-
Soil Needs: Prefers well-drained soil; highly adaptable to clay, sand, and loam. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
-
Water Requirements: Low to moderate once established. Over-irrigation can cause chlorosis and death-or root rot in container plants.
-
Bark: Reddish brown when young, smooth, darkening with age to gray
-
Flowers: White, fragrant, creamy-white racemes that appear in late winter to early spring
-
Fruit: Shiny black drupe, 1/3 to 1/2 inch long, eaten by birds and small mammals
-
Foliage: Dark green, glossy, dense leaves that produce a scent reminiscent of maraschino cherries when crushed
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast-growing privacy screening from neighbors, streets, or unsightly views
-
Property owners wanting year-round evergreen beauty with minimal maintenance and no winter leaf drop
-
Garden enthusiasts 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
-
Anyone needing windbreak protection or noise reduction, or wanting to naturalize property borders with a beautiful, low-effort tall evergreen hedge
If you want dense, fast, year-round privacy that also supports pollinators and wildlife, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Carolina Cherry Laurel grow? Under favorable California conditions with full sun and well drained soil, expect 1–2 feet of new growth per year, 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.
Does it need much water in California? 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.
Can I keep it as a hedge or does it have to grow tall? 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.
Will it attract bees and birds to my yard? 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.
What spacing do I need for a privacy hedge? 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.
Are there any concerns I should know about? 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.
Ready to Create Your Privacy Paradise?
Carolina cherry laurel delivers fast, dense, evergreen privacy backed by fragrant blooms and genuine wildlife value-all perfectly suited to California's climate.
Whether 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 privacy hedging plants or compare alternatives like Leyland Cypress and Podocarpus to find the perfect fit.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Prunus Caroliniana Compacta (Carolina Cherry Laurel)
Regular price
$295.00
Size
The Perfect Privacy Screen That Grows Fast and Stays Green Year-Round
Carolina 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, Prunus caroliniana thrives across California's mild climates, making it one of the smartest choices for homeowners who want fast, beautiful, and low-maintenance privacy.
Why You'll Love It
-
Fast Privacy – 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.
-
Year-Round Beauty – 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.
-
Low Maintenance – Prunus caroliniana is drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental irrigation after the first year.
-
Fragrant Blooms – 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.
-
Versatile Form – 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.
What Makes It Different
Most 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 English laurel can become invasive and offer less ecological value.
Carolina cherry laurel offers:
-
Dense Growth Pattern – 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.
-
California Climate Adapted – Carolina cherry-laurel generally thrives in USDA Zones 7–10, handling drought, heat, and even moderate coastal salt exposure. It tolerates clay, sand, and loam soils-practically any well drained soil you have.
-
Multi-Season Interest – 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.
How To Grow Prunus Caroliniana Successfully In Your Landscape
-
Plant in Row 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.
-
Establish Roots 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.
-
Enjoy Growth 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.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: Prunus caroliniana grows 20 feet tall in compact form; can reach 20–30 ft with a 15–25 ft spread in open landscape settings
-
Growth Rate: Fast - 2–3 feet per year in California climates; up to 4 feet per year in high-moisture native range areas
-
Hardiness Zones: 7–10 (ideal for California)
-
Sun Requirements: This plant thrives in full sun to full shade, with best density and flowering in full sun; acceptable in partial shade
-
Soil Needs: Prefers well-drained soil; highly adaptable to clay, sand, and loam. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
-
Water Requirements: Low to moderate once established. Over-irrigation can cause chlorosis and death-or root rot in container plants.
-
Bark: Reddish brown when young, smooth, darkening with age to gray
-
Flowers: White, fragrant, creamy-white racemes that appear in late winter to early spring
-
Fruit: Shiny black drupe, 1/3 to 1/2 inch long, eaten by birds and small mammals
-
Foliage: Dark green, glossy, dense leaves that produce a scent reminiscent of maraschino cherries when crushed
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast-growing privacy screening from neighbors, streets, or unsightly views
-
Property owners wanting year-round evergreen beauty with minimal maintenance and no winter leaf drop
-
Garden enthusiasts 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
-
Anyone needing windbreak protection or noise reduction, or wanting to naturalize property borders with a beautiful, low-effort tall evergreen hedge
If you want dense, fast, year-round privacy that also supports pollinators and wildlife, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Carolina Cherry Laurel grow? Under favorable California conditions with full sun and well drained soil, expect 1–2 feet of new growth per year, 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.
Does it need much water in California? 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.
Can I keep it as a hedge or does it have to grow tall? 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.
Will it attract bees and birds to my yard? 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.
What spacing do I need for a privacy hedge? 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.
Are there any concerns I should know about? 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.
Ready to Create Your Privacy Paradise?
Carolina cherry laurel delivers fast, dense, evergreen privacy backed by fragrant blooms and genuine wildlife value-all perfectly suited to California's climate.
Whether 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 privacy hedging plants or compare alternatives like Leyland Cypress and Podocarpus to find the perfect fit.
The Perfect Privacy Screen That Grows Fast and Stays Green Year-Round
Carolina 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, Prunus caroliniana thrives across California's mild climates, making it one of the smartest choices for homeowners who want fast, beautiful, and low-maintenance privacy.
Why You'll Love It
-
Fast Privacy – 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.
-
Year-Round Beauty – 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.
-
Low Maintenance – Prunus caroliniana is drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal supplemental irrigation after the first year.
-
Fragrant Blooms – 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.
-
Versatile Form – 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.
What Makes It Different
Most 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 English laurel can become invasive and offer less ecological value.
Carolina cherry laurel offers:
-
Dense Growth Pattern – 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.
-
California Climate Adapted – Carolina cherry-laurel generally thrives in USDA Zones 7–10, handling drought, heat, and even moderate coastal salt exposure. It tolerates clay, sand, and loam soils-practically any well drained soil you have.
-
Multi-Season Interest – 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.
How To Grow Prunus Caroliniana Successfully In Your Landscape
-
Plant in Row 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.
-
Establish Roots 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.
-
Enjoy Growth 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.
Plant Details
-
Mature Size: Prunus caroliniana grows 20 feet tall in compact form; can reach 20–30 ft with a 15–25 ft spread in open landscape settings
-
Growth Rate: Fast - 2–3 feet per year in California climates; up to 4 feet per year in high-moisture native range areas
-
Hardiness Zones: 7–10 (ideal for California)
-
Sun Requirements: This plant thrives in full sun to full shade, with best density and flowering in full sun; acceptable in partial shade
-
Soil Needs: Prefers well-drained soil; highly adaptable to clay, sand, and loam. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
-
Water Requirements: Low to moderate once established. Over-irrigation can cause chlorosis and death-or root rot in container plants.
-
Bark: Reddish brown when young, smooth, darkening with age to gray
-
Flowers: White, fragrant, creamy-white racemes that appear in late winter to early spring
-
Fruit: Shiny black drupe, 1/3 to 1/2 inch long, eaten by birds and small mammals
-
Foliage: Dark green, glossy, dense leaves that produce a scent reminiscent of maraschino cherries when crushed
Who It's For
Ideal for:
-
Homeowners seeking fast-growing privacy screening from neighbors, streets, or unsightly views
-
Property owners wanting year-round evergreen beauty with minimal maintenance and no winter leaf drop
-
Garden enthusiasts 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
-
Anyone needing windbreak protection or noise reduction, or wanting to naturalize property borders with a beautiful, low-effort tall evergreen hedge
If you want dense, fast, year-round privacy that also supports pollinators and wildlife, this plant fits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does Carolina Cherry Laurel grow? Under favorable California conditions with full sun and well drained soil, expect 1–2 feet of new growth per year, 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.
Does it need much water in California? 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.
Can I keep it as a hedge or does it have to grow tall? 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.
Will it attract bees and birds to my yard? 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.
What spacing do I need for a privacy hedge? 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.
Are there any concerns I should know about? 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.
Ready to Create Your Privacy Paradise?
Carolina cherry laurel delivers fast, dense, evergreen privacy backed by fragrant blooms and genuine wildlife value-all perfectly suited to California's climate.
Whether 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 privacy hedging plants or compare alternatives like Leyland Cypress and Podocarpus to find the perfect fit.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Thousands of Healthy Plants Delivered
Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.