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Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia'
15L pot • Supplied approximately 60cm tall
Plant Highlights: Dense evergreen foliage • Elegant narrow leaves • Excellent for screening and hedging • White spring flowers • Attractive architectural form
Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia', commonly known as Portuguese Laurel, is a refined evergreen shrub with slender, glossy dark green leaves held on attractive reddish stems. In late spring to early summer, mature plants produce upright clusters of small, fragrant white flowers, followed by dark ornamental berries if pollinated.
Its naturally dense, upright habit makes it an outstanding choice for evergreen hedging, screening or as a specimen shrub. The finer foliage gives it a more elegant appearance than common cherry laurel, making it equally suited to formal and contemporary gardens.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Prunus lusitanica 'Angustifolia' |
| Common Name | Portuguese Laurel |
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub |
| Foliage | Evergreen, narrow glossy dark green leaves with reddish stems |
| Flower | Small, fragrant white flowers borne in upright racemes |
| Flowering Period | Late spring to early summer |
| Growth Habit | Dense, upright and bushy |
| Position | Full sun or partial shade |
| Soil | Fertile, moist but well-drained soil; tolerant of a range of soil types once established |
| Mature Height | Approximately 4–6m if left unpruned |
| Mature Spread | Approximately 2.5–4m |
| Hardiness | Hardy in Irish gardens. Establishes best in well-drained soil and benefits from shelter from cold, drying winds when young. |
Grow in full sun or partial shade. It performs well in sheltered or moderately exposed locations and is suitable for coastal gardens where conditions are not excessively harsh.
Water regularly during the first growing season to encourage a strong root system. Once established, water during prolonged dry spells, particularly for newly planted or container-grown specimens.
Plant in fertile, well-drained soil. Improve very heavy soils with organic matter before planting to promote good drainage while retaining moisture.
This evergreen shrub is reliably hardy throughout Ireland. Good drainage is beneficial during wet winters, and a layer of mulch around newly planted shrubs helps conserve moisture and protect the roots during establishment.
Prune after flowering or in late summer to maintain the desired size and shape. It responds well to clipping, making it ideal for formal hedging. Remove any dead or damaged branches as required.
The supplied height refers to the plant at the time of sale and not its mature size. If grown as a hedge, regular trimming will keep it much smaller than its natural mature dimensions.

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