Green Goblet Cherry Laurel offers year-round structure in a naturally compact form, typically growing 2.5 to 4 feet tall and spreading 2.5 to 5 feet wide. Its dense, upright branching habit requires little pruning, making it an excellent choice for low hedges, borders, and mass plantings where uniformity and minimal maintenance are priorities.

The shrub’s leathery, deep green leaves retain their luster through winter, offering dependable evergreen color in shaded areas. In spring, it produces short spikes of white flowers (modest but attractive), which offer soft seasonal contrast against the dark foliage. Though the blooms are brief, they add important spring interest, while the tidy foliage provides summer presence well into the warmer months.

One of Green Goblet’s strongest attributes is its adaptability to shade. It grows well in partial to full shade, tolerates loamy soils with good drainage, and withstands occasional drought once established. This makes it a great performer in tough planting conditions—especially where full sun is limited and narrow planting zones call for a tidy footprint.

This cultivar was bred for performance in smaller landscapes and high-visibility areas, where consistent form and evergreen reliability are key.

Low Hedges and Borders: With its restrained height and refined habit, Green Goblet makes an excellent choice for low hedges or defining garden borders. Space plants approximately 5 feet apart to allow for natural fullness without overcrowding. For a soft but formal look, alternate it with upright grasses or flowering shade shrubs like Hydrangea arborescens.

Privacy Screens in Narrow Spaces: This shrub’s dense foliage and moderate height make it perfect for privacy plantings where space is limited. Its upright structure ensures coverage without overwhelming nearby plantings or structures. Try planting it in a staggered row along walkways or property lines.

Mass Plantings for Ground-Level Structure: When planted in groups, Green Goblet creates a continuous band of greenery that anchors beds and buffers structures. For a strong visual foundation, use it in the foreground of layered shade beds with perennials like hosta, hellebores, or tiarella.

Foundation Plantings: Because of its evergreen foliage and moderate size, Green Goblet is well-suited to foundation beds, where it offers a clean look year-round without crowding windows or hardscapes. It pairs well with variegated companions or plants with lighter foliage to create contrast.

Focal Point in Shaded Courtyards: While typically used in groups, Green Goblet can also serve as a focal point in a small shaded courtyard or entry bed. Its symmetry and rich color give it presence, especially when surrounded by gravel, mulch, or low-spreading groundcovers.

This laurel is low-maintenance, but consistent care will keep it thriving for years:

Planting: Choose a location with loamy, well-drained soil in partial to full shade. Avoid poorly drained sites. Fall or early spring planting gives roots time to establish before summer heat.

Watering: Water deeply and consistently during the first season. Once established, the plant is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during long dry periods.

Spacing: Allow 5 feet between plants for optimal growth and air circulation, especially when used as a hedge or mass planting.

Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support new growth and flower production. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pruning: Prune in early spring to shape or reduce size if needed, though its natural form is tidy without frequent intervention.

Pests & Disease: Relatively resistant to pests. Occasional shot hole disease may appear, especially in humid climates—ensure good spacing and airflow to help prevent it.