Prunus laurocerasus 'Mt. Vernon'
Mt. Vernon laurel
Cultivar of garden origin (species from southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia)Learn more
Overview
A compact, low-growing, spreading broadleaf evergreen shrub reaching 1.5-2.5 feet (45-75 cm) tall and 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 m) wide. Growth rate is slow to moderate, adding 4-8 inches (10-20 cm) per year. This dwarf cultivar of Prunus laurocerasus was selected for its ground-hugging, mounding habit, a marked contrast to the large, upright species type. Leaves are alternate, elliptical to oblong, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long and 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) wide — noticeably smaller than the species type — glossy dark green, leathery, with finely serrated margins. New growth is bright green. Like the species, crushed leaves emit a bitter-almond scent from cyanogenic glycosides. Flowers appear in April to May in short, erect racemes, white, approximately 0.3 inches (8 mm) across, less profusely than the species. Fruit is a small black drupe, produced sparsely. The low, spreading habit makes this cultivar suitable for groundcover and low hedge applications where the species type would be far too large. Less invasive than the species type due to reduced fruiting, though volunteer seedlings may still appear. All parts are toxic. Hardy to approximately -5 to 5°F (-20 to -15°C).
Native Range
Cultivar of garden origin; the species Prunus laurocerasus is native to southeastern Europe (Balkans) and southwestern Asia (Turkey, Caucasus, Iran).Suggested Uses
Commonly used as an evergreen groundcover at 3-4 foot (0.9-1.2 m) spacing, low foundation planting, or edging along walkways and borders. The compact size makes it suitable for residential spaces where the species type is too large. Suitable for low hedging at 2-3 foot (60-90 cm) spacing. Tolerates heavy shade, urban conditions, and a wide range of soils. A preferred alternative to the invasive species type for low-height applications.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1'6" - 2'6"
Width/Spread4' - 6'
Reaches mature size in approximately 5 years
Colors
Flower Colors
Foliage Colors
Bloom Information
Flowers from April to May in USDA zones 6-9. Short erect racemes bear white flowers approximately 0.3 inches (8 mm) across. Bloom is less profuse than the species type. Bloom lasts 2-3 weeks. Sparse black drupes may form in late summer.Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Glossy dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in full sun to full shade in well-drained soil. Adapts to a wide range of soil types and pH from 5.0 to 8.0. Water regularly during the first growing season; established plants tolerate moderate drought. The compact growth habit means minimal pruning is typically needed. Shot-hole disease may occur in humid conditions with poor air circulation. Less invasive than the species due to reduced fruiting, but seedlings may still appear.Pruning
Prune in late spring after flowering to maintain shape if needed. The naturally compact, mounding habit requires minimal intervention. Use hand pruners rather than hedge shears to avoid cutting through leaves and causing brown edges. Light shearing in June is tolerated for a more formal appearance. Hard rejuvenation pruning is rarely needed.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
late spring
Maintenance Level
very lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 5 gallons