Skip Laurel

Skip Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Schipkaensis')

Skip Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Schipkaensis') is a fast-growing, upright evergreen shrub prized for its dense foliage, narrow footprint, and adaptability to sun or shade. Also known as Schip Laurel or Schipka Cherry Laurel, this cultivar is ideal for creating privacy screens and evergreen backdrops in residential or commercial settings where height and year-round coverage are needed without excessive width.

Distinctive Features

'Schipkaensis' features rich, dark green leaves with a leathery texture that stay vibrant through winter. It produces fragrant white flower spikes in mid to late spring, followed by black berries that attract birds. With a naturally columnar habit, it reaches 8 to 10 feet tall and 3 to 5 feet wide at maturity, forming a dense hedge with minimal shaping. Its cold hardiness and fast growth rate make it a popular alternative to leyland cypress or arborvitae in shaded or mixed-sun environments.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Partial sun to full shade
• Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soils
• Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
• Water Needs: Moderate; water regularly during dry periods
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 9

Ideal Uses

• Evergreen privacy hedges and tall screens
• Foundation or structure plantings
• Shaded borders and narrow side yards
• Noise buffers or windbreaks
• Focal point hedge in formal or naturalistic designs

Low Maintenance Care

• Prune in late spring or early summer to maintain height and shape
• Mulch annually to retain moisture and insulate roots
• Fertilize in early spring with an evergreen shrub formula
• Water during establishment and in prolonged dry spells
• Deer resistant and pollution tolerant

Why Choose Skip Laurel

• Columnar growth makes it ideal for space-efficient hedging
• Dark evergreen foliage offers year-round privacy and structure
• Excellent cold tolerance and fast growth rate
• Performs well in shade where other hedges struggle
• A commanding, upright focal point in evergreen screening

Skip Laurel is one of the most versatile and widely used evergreen screening plants available, offering structure, privacy, and lasting beauty in both shaded and sunny landscapes.