Cherry laurel isn’t just about that lush, evergreen foliage we all love. These plants actually put on a bit of a floral show, too! If you’re wondering what to expect and when your shrubs will start popping, here’s the lowdown on the cherry laurel blooming season so you can be ready for it.
What to Expect From Your Cherry Laurel
Despite what you might have heard, every variety of cherry laurel is capable of blooming. If yours is looking a bit bare in the flower department, it might be time to double-check its location or your feeding routine. Just keep in mind that some varieties are “showier” than others—not every type will give you a massive carpet of white flowers.
Quick Facts About Cherry Laurel Blooms:
- Quantity: Tons of tiny flowers clustered on upright spikes (racemes)
- Color: Creamy white
- Scent: A lovely, sweet aromatic fragrance
- Bloom Time: April to May
You can usually expect the first buds to open in April. When a shrub is in full bloom, it fills the garden with a wonderful scent that lingers through May. Once those flowers start to fade, it’s a good idea to prune them off if you can. If left alone, those spent blooms turn into small, dark berries which—like most parts of the cherry laurel—are toxic. Plus, deadheading helps the plant focus its energy on growing that thick, beautiful foliage we’re all after.
Good Care Means Better Growth
Taking good care of your cherry laurel doesn’t just help with the spring show. If you’re lucky and the conditions are just right, your plant might even reward you with a second, smaller bloom later in the year. It won’t be as dramatic as the spring flowering, but it’s a nice little bonus!
The real secret to a stunning cherry laurel is proper pruning. By trimming it back correctly, the plant directs its energy into creating a dense wall of green. That’s why so many of us love them for privacy hedges and screens! Just make sure you’re using the right fertilizer and have it planted in the perfect spot. Do that, and your cherry laurel will be a happy camper for years to come.
