Cherry laurel
Family. Rosaceae.
Where does it grow? Portugal, southwest Spain, Madeira, Azores and Canary Islands.
What does it look like? Cherry laurel trees are deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs with large vertical stems and oblong, shiny, dark green leaves up to 10 centimeters long and about 3 centimeters wide. The lower part of the leaf blade has a lighter shade. The flowers are goblet-shaped, fragrant, collected in inflorescences - brushes from 5 to 12 centimeters long. Individual buds are about one centimeter in diameter. The inflorescence contains up to 40 buds and during the flowering period they fill the air with an intoxicating aroma. In autumn, the foliage turns yellow and falls. Over time, small red or cherry berries are formed, which turn black when ripe.
Height. In their natural habitat they reach 2 - 6 m. In indoor culture it is easily regulated by pruning.
Caring
Reproduction
Cherry laurel can be propagated by seeds, but this is a rather lengthy process. The method of vegetative propagation using apical cuttings is mainly used in summer and autumn. Air layering and grafting are also used for propagation.
Soil for growing
The bush requires nutritious soil, loose with good drainage, while the soil pH should be between 6.5 and 7.5.
Growing at home
The tree should be pruned annually so that the crown looks bushier and has a compact, attractive shape. Pruning is done immediately after flowering; with its help, you can give the plant any desired shape and height - pyramidal, round, square. In summer, this bush will look better outdoors.
Diseases and pests
Plants that receive good care rarely get sick. Overmoistening and stagnation of water can cause rot.
The most common pests are whiteflies, scale insects, mealybugs, and aphids.
Transplant
Young seedlings are replanted annually, as they develop quickly. Adult specimens are replanted if it is necessary to change the soil - it is better not to replant often.
When it blooms
Blooms in April - May.
Feeding
During the growing season, laurel cherries are fed 2 times a month with liquid fertilizers, while at the end of summer it is worth using fertilizers with a low nitrogen content. The plant loves to be fertilized with organic fertilizers.
Containment temperature
During the period of active growth, keep it at a normal room temperature of about 20 degrees Celsius, but in winter the pot should be placed in a cool room with a temperature of about 13°C.
Lighting
Grows well in both bright light and partial shade. Shade on hot summer days.
Spraying
Spraying the leaves is not necessary - representatives of the species tolerate dry conditions well, but it is worth remembering that keeping the plant in an atmosphere that is too dry can lead to an invasion of pests, such as red spider mites.
Irrigation
During the period of active growth, water generously, the upper part of the soil should dry out a little before the next watering. In winter, the frequency of watering is reduced. Excess water accumulated in the tray must be removed.
Note
Leaves and fruits are harmful if ingested. Cherry laurel can live up to 50 years or even longer if kept indoors. The bushes release special substances into the air - phytoncides, which help fight bacteria and viruses.