Cherry-laurel

The range extends from Texas to North Carolina mostly in the coastal plan and adjacent areas of sandy hills.  In Florida, the range is continuous down to central Florida and then peters out, a pattern that largely corresponds to climate (temperature patterns). 

This species should grow well from the central peninsula northward.



Can be used as a specimen plant, hedge (can be trimmed), shelter plant, or wildlife thicket. Appreciated for its shiny dark foliage.

Not salt tolerant of inundation by salty or brackish water.



Some tolerance to salty wind but not direct salt spray.

This plant can be too prolific as the many seedlings that come up both around the plant and under bird perching sites can become problematic. Also spreads by underground stems.

Weak, prone to wind damage.

Seed is spread by birds.

Dry-moist sites. Upland hardwood forests, upland mixed forest, secondary woods, riverine swamps, disturbed areas.

• Showy flowers, Interesting foliage
• Attracts bees.