Laurel and Portuguese Laurel are both popular choices for gardens and landscapes due to their attractive foliage. While they share some similarities, there are a few key differences that set them apart.
1. Appearance:
Laurel, also known as English Laurel or Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), is known for its dark glossy green leaves and dark red stems. The leaves are elongated and have a pointed tip, giving them a more elegant and formal appearance. The overall growth habit of Laurel is dense and upright, making it a great choice for hedges or screens.
On the other hand, Portuguese Laurel (Prunus lusitanica) has bright green rounded glossy leaves. What sets it apart from Laurel is that its leaves have a beautiful warm bronzed appearance when they are young, before turning green as they mature. This unique characteristic adds a touch of warmth and visual interest to the plant. Portuguese Laurel also has red stems, although they are not as dark as those of Laurel.
2. Size and Growth Habit:
Laurel is a larger plant compared to Portuguese Laurel. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and wide, forming a dense and compact shrub or small tree. In contrast, Portuguese Laurel is slightly smaller, typically reaching heights of 10-15 feet and having a more rounded and compact growth habit.
3. Hardiness and Adaptability:
Both Laurel and Portuguese Laurel are known for their hardiness and adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions. However, there are slight differences in their preferred environments. Laurel is more tolerant of shade and can grow well in both full sun and partial shade. It is also more tolerant of dry conditions once established. Portuguese Laurel, on the other hand, prefers full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained soil. It can tolerate dry conditions once established but requires regular watering during its establishment phase.
4. Flower and Fruit:
Both varieties produce small white flowers in the spring, which are followed by small black fruits. However, the flowers of Portuguese Laurel are known for their pleasant fragrance, adding an extra sensory element to the garden. The fruits of both varieties are not typically consumed by humans but are enjoyed by birds.
5. Uses in the Landscape:
Laurel is often used as a hedge or screening plant due to its dense growth habit and ability to be pruned into shape. It can also be trained into a small tree form. Portuguese Laurel is also suitable for hedges and screens, but its compact growth habit and attractive foliage make it a popular choice for ornamental planting as well. It can be used as a specimen plant, in mixed borders, or as a backdrop for other plants.
While both Laurel and Portuguese Laurel share similarities in terms of their attractive foliage and adaptability, there are noticeable differences in their appearance, size, growth habit, preferred environments, and uses in the landscape. Understanding these distinctions can help gardeners make informed decisions when selecting the right plant for their specific needs and preferences.
