Prunus lusitanica aka Portuguese Laurel

Prunus lusitanica is an evergreen member of the rose family. Gardeners call it Portugal laurel or Portuguese cherry laurel. It comes from southwest Europe and Morocco. It grows in mountain forests on the Iberian Peninsula. Its dense branches form a rounded shrub or spreading tree. Garden shrubs reach about 10–20 feet (3–6 metres) tall and wide. Smaller plants may stop at 12 feet (3.7 metres). Tree forms can reach 50 feet (15 metres). RHS reports heights above 39 feet (12 metres) and widths above 26 feet (8 metres).

Young shoots have a dark red tint. Smooth bark ranges from dark brown and gray to black. The glossy leaves stay green through winter. Each leaf is simple, with an oval outline and toothed edge. Leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Their undersides are lighter than their upper surfaces. Red leaf stalks add color among the dark foliage. The leaves look like those of bay laurel.

Small white flowers open in early summer and have a scent. Sources also report spring bloom. Each flower has five petals. Narrow racemes reach about 0.8 feet (0.25 metres) long. Small, cherry-like drupes follow the flowers. They start green or reddish green, then darken as they ripen. Ripe fruit turns purple-black in late summer or early fall. The plant draws butterflies and other pollinators. Eastern tiger swallowtail caterpillars also feed on it.

Grow it in sun or partial shade with good drainage. It accepts clay, loam, sand, and chalk. Acid, neutral, and alkaline soils all suit it. It can grow in poor, shallow soil too. Moist soil supports growth, but established plants withstand drought. Its growth rate is moderate, and maturity takes 20–50 years. Sources give USDA zones 6–9 and UK hardiness H5. Dense growth suits hedges, screens, barriers, and topiary. It tolerates pruning; trim hedges in late spring or early summer. Leaves and fruit can provide dyes.

Vine weevils and leaf-mining moths may damage the leaves. Powdery mildew can occur. RHS flags it as a high-risk host for Xylella fastidiosa. Leaves, stems, and seeds contain compounds that can release cyanide. These parts pose risks to people and pets when eaten. Wilting or damage can release the poison. Sources describe fully ripe fruit as edible, but warn against bitter fruit. PFAF also lists seeds as edible, with a bitterness warning. These food listings do not remove the plant's poisoning risk.