Laurel - uses
I could definitely do with more evergreens and more structure - im just looking at laurel as it seems to look good all year round, and i think good in windy sites.
my question is - is laurel just a rather large hedge plant or is it good for a mixed shrubbery? or other places? Any good ideas for using laurel??
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I assume we're talking Prunus laurocerasus?
It makes a nice big shiny bush. I think you need to tip the ends of the branches in youth to get it to thicken up. I have some that I just let grow and they were fine for a good 15 years then got very see-through. They are big shrubs if you don't trim them, roadside electric wire height and still growing.
I like Portugal laurel, Prunus lusitanicus, it's a nice dark green and less inclined to get bits of die back. Again tall if not clipped
I use the spotted one under conifers to brighten up the end of the garden. It doesnt seem to mind the dry shady conditions.
and Aucuba japonica, that makes a nice bright patch.
Its the common one ive seen nice and cheap. I do have plenty of space and could do with something there in winter stopping some wind. Dont really fancy a formal hedge though.
Whats the worst that could happen if you plant laurel and dont like it? Yes it can be a monster to dig up, but its doable and you will have more of an idea of what will go there, or you will love it and be glad you planted it
Think ill just get 3 and try and triangle arrangement In a windy spot.
Having seen them i changed my mind and going for portugal laurel - it looks nice and i think more versitIle.