Laurel cherry
Prunus carolinianafam. Rosaceae
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Pl. 56CA — Prunus caroliniana
Prunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus carolinianaPrunus caroliniana
IOverview
Overview
The laurel cherry (Prunus caroliniana), a member of the Rosaceae family, is native to southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Texas and Florida. This versatile plant thrives in various habitats and can be found growing as both a tree and shrub. Known for its edible fruit and documented medicinal uses, it provides valuable resources for local ecosystems and human applications. One distinctive feature of the laurel cherry is its ability to tolerate partial sun to full shade, making it adaptable to different light conditions. Additionally, it prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) in texture, withstanding moisture levels from dry to moist environments.
Quick answers
What is Laurel cherry?
The laurel cherry (Prunus caroliniana), a member of the Rosaceae family, is native to southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Texas and Florida. This versatile plant thrives in various habitats and can be found growing as both a tree and shrub.
IV·bMixology suggestions
1 draft
Mixology suggestions
1 draftEditorial drafts. These pairings are AI-suggested from traditional herbal lore. Always verify with a qualified herbalist before brewing.
Digestive Harmony
digestiontincture
Used traditionally to aid digestion and soothe the stomach.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The laurel cherry is a perennial tree or shrub that thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist to dry conditions. It grows best in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. Hardy in zones 7-10, this plant can reach up to 12 meters in height. For successful propagation, use seeds. Given its native range across the southeastern United States, it is well-adapted to the local climate and soils.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
12.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Laurel cherry for the first time
8steps
Start with a Laurel cherry tree to ensure success for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
A Laurel cherry sapling, garden gloves, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with medium moisture. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the garden, spacing them 6-10 feet apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade. Water deeply once a week, especially in dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter to encourage healthy growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting regular pruning, not providing enough sunlight, and using too much fertilizer.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The laurel cherry's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The seeds are also edible but should be handled with care due to their toxicity when ingested improperly. Skip the seed unless you know how to safely process it.
Other uses:DyeHedgerowWind breakerLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 9 native· 1 introduced
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina
introduced:Tennessee
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Rosaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Rosaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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