Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel

Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Otto Luyken')

Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Otto Luyken') is a compact, low-maintenance evergreen shrub prized for its glossy foliage, dense habit, and fragrant spring blooms. Its refined appearance and year-round structure make it a versatile choice for foundations, borders, and mass plantings that require evergreen coverage with minimal upkeep.

Distinctive Features

Otto Luyken forms a broad, spreading mound with a mature height of 3 to 4 feet and a spread of 6 to 8 feet. The narrow, deep green leaves create a polished texture throughout the year, while upright white flower spikes appear in mid to late spring. These blooms emit a light fragrance and are often followed by small black fruits that attract birds. Its uniform growth and adaptability to sun or shade make it one of the most popular dwarf laurels in modern landscaping.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to full shade.
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soil.
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral.
• Water Needs: Moderate; water regularly during establishment.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9.

Ideal Uses

• Foundation Plantings: Excellent for use under windows or along walkways.
• Mass Plantings: Ideal for evergreen groundcover and low borders.
• Low Hedges: Forms a uniform, polished hedge with minimal trimming.
• Shaded Areas: Thrives beneath trees or in partial shade.
• Focal Point: A compact evergreen accent for small gardens and structured beds.

Low Maintenance Care

Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel is highly adaptable and easy to maintain, offering long-term performance with little effort.

• Pruning: Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape or control spread.
• Mulching: Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Fertilizing: Feed in spring with a balanced evergreen shrub fertilizer.
• Watering: Water deeply during extended dry periods to support growth.
• Resistance: Deer and pollution tolerant, suitable for urban settings.

Why Choose Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel?

This compact evergreen offers polished structure, fragrance, and durability, making it an essential element in both formal and natural landscape designs.

• Compact Form: Dense, low growth perfect for foundations and borders.
• Evergreen Appeal: Glossy leaves provide consistent year-round texture.
• Shade Tolerant: Performs well in sun or deep shade.
• Fragrant Blooms: White flowers add spring charm and attract pollinators.
• Focal Point: A dependable, all-season evergreen for structure and beauty.

Prunus laurocerasus 'Otto Luyken' brings reliable greenery, refined texture, and four-season interest to gardens of any style, blending elegance and function effortlessly.