The difference between Schip laurel and English cherry laurel lies primarily in their growth habits. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have had personal experiences with both of these plants and can provide you with a detailed answer.
1. Growth Rate:
The English cherry laurel, also known as English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), tends to have a much faster growth rate compared to the Schip laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’). This means that the English laurel will grow both upward and outward at a rapid pace, making it an excellent choice for quickly establishing a hedge or screen. On the other hand, the Schip laurel grows mainly in an upright fashion and remains relatively narrow.
2. Size and Shape:
Due to its fast growth rate, English laurel can reach impressive heights, often exceeding 10 to 15 feet tall. Its width can also span several feet, making it ideal for creating a dense and full hedge. In contrast, the Schip laurel tends to stay more compact and upright, typically reaching a height of around 6 to 8 feet and maintaining a narrower shape, making it better suited for smaller spaces or when a more formal appearance is desired.
3. Leaf Characteristics:
Both the English cherry laurel and Schip laurel have glossy, dark green leaves that provide an attractive backdrop in any garden setting. However, there are slight differences in leaf size and shape. The leaves of English laurel are typically larger, measuring around 2 to 4 inches in length, while the leaves of the Schip laurel are slightly smaller, ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches. The shape of the leaves is also slightly different, with English laurel leaves being more elongated and pointed, while Schip laurel leaves are slightly wider and more rounded.
4. Flowering and Fruit:
Both varieties of laurel produce small, fragrant white flowers in the spring, which add a delightful aroma to the garden. However, the English laurel tends to have a more abundant display of flowers compared to the Schip laurel. After flowering, the English laurel also develops small, round black berries, which are toxic if ingested. The Schip laurel, on the other hand, produces fewer berries, and they are typically smaller in size.
The main difference between Schip laurel and English cherry laurel lies in their growth habits. The English laurel grows rapidly both upward and outward, while the Schip laurel maintains a more compact and upright form. Additionally, the English laurel tends to be larger in size, with larger leaves, more abundant flowers, and toxic berries. The Schip laurel, on the other hand, is more suitable for smaller spaces or when a more formal appearance is desired.
