cherry laurel
(Prunus laurocerasus)
This species is Introduced in the United States
Appearance
Prunus laurocerasus is a large evergreen shrub or tree that can grow from 10-30 ft. (3-9 m) tall.
Foliage
Leaves are thick, 3-8 in. (7.6-20.3 cm) long, oblong, pointed at the tip, alternate, and are darker green on top and paler green on the underside.
Flowers
Flowers are found in clusters of small, cream to white, fragrant, cup-shaped flowers with 5 petals and yellow stamens. The blooming period occurs from April to May.
Fruit
Fruits are cherry-like, small purplish black, cone-shaped, clustered fruits.
Ecological Threat
Prunus laurocerasus can be found in woodland edges and in forest areas. It is native to southwest Asia and southeast Europe. Seeds are very toxic to humans and may be fatal if eaten.
Selected Images
Maps
EDDMapS Distribution - This map is incomplete and is based only on current site and county level reports made by experts, herbaria, and literature. For more information, visit www.eddmaps.org
State Lists - This map identifies those states that have this species on their invasive species list or law.
Invasive Listing Sources
- Native Plant Society of Oregon, 2008
- Non-Native Invasive Plants of the City of Alexandria, Virginia
- Reichard, Sarah. 1994. Assessing the potential of invasiveness in woody plants introduced in North America. University of Washington Ph.D. dissertation.
- WeedUS - Database of Plants Invading Natural Areas in the United States
Taxonomic Rank
| Domain: Eukarya |
| Kingdom: Plantae |
| Phylum: Magnoliophyta |
| Class: Magnoliopsida |
| Superorder: Rosanae |
| Order: Rosales |
| Family: Rosaceae |
| Subfamily: Amygdaloideae |
| Tribe: Amygdaleae |
| Genus: Prunus |
| Prunus laurocerasus |
References
Common Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.
Scientific Name Reference: USDA, NRCS. 2010. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA.