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Portuguese Laurel

Prunus lusitanica

shrub

Portuguese Laurel is a dense, evergreen shrub with glossy dark green leaves and fragrant white flower spikes in late spring. It is highly ornamental and tolerates clipping well, making it ideal for hedges, screens, or specimen plantings. This hardy shrub is disease-resistant and relatively low-maintenance once established.

Portuguese Laurel

Common Problems

Select the problem your Portuguese Laurel is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Slow Growthchevron_right
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Yellow Leaveschevron_right
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Brown Tipschevron_right
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Underwateringchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light
Full sun to partial shade; prefers at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily for best foliage color and flowering.
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Water
Keep soil consistently moist but well-draining; water regularly during the growing season and reduce in winter. Established plants are moderately drought-tolerant.
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Soil
Well-draining, fertile soil; tolerates slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0). Avoid waterlogged or compacted soils.
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Fertiliser
Apply balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in spring as new growth begins. Light feeding is usually sufficient for established plants.
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Temperature
Hardy to -5°C (23°F); prefers cool to moderate climates. Protect from harsh winds in colder regions.
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Humidity
Moderate humidity is acceptable; no special requirements. Benefits from occasional misting in very dry conditions.

Toxicity

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Leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides; can be toxic if ingested in quantity. Handle with care and keep away from pets and young children.

Common Diseases

coronavirusLeaf Spotchevron_rightcoronavirusRoot Rotchevron_rightcoronavirusCankerchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.