Portugal Laurel
Prunus lusitanica

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

Prunus lusitanica is an evergreen Shrub growing to 6 m (19ft) by 6 m (19ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 6

Where it is found

Forests in the mountains of the Iberian peninsula.

W. Europe - S.W. France, Spain and Portugal. Occasionally naturalized in Britain.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, Britain, Central America, Europe, France, Jamaica, Mediterranean, North America, Portugal, Spain, USA,

How it is used

Food

Rating: 3

The fruit is probably edible when fully ripe but should not be eaten if it is bitter because this bitterness is caused by the presence of toxic compounds, see the notes above on toxicity. The fruit is about 8mm in diameter and contains one large seed. Seed - raw or cooked. Do not eat the seed if it is too bitter - see the notes above on toxicity.

Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.

Medicine

Rating: 1

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, all members of the genus contain amygdalin and prunasin, substances which break down in water to form hydrocyanic acid (cyanide or prussic acid). In small amounts this exceedingly poisonous compound stimulates respiration, improves digestion and gives a sense of well-being.

Other

Rating: 5

A very good plant for a low windbreak. It is also used as a medium to tall hedge and for topiary. A green dye can be obtained from the leaves. A dark grey to green dye can be obtained from the fruit.

Dye: Plants that provide dyes.

Hedge: Plants that can be grown as hedges.

Hedge: Hedge

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds on all soil types, though it prefers a well-drained moisture-retentive loamy soil. Prefers some lime in the soil but is likely to become chlorotic if too much lime is present. Thrives on chalk according to other reports. Succeeds in sun or partial shade though it fruits better in a sunny position. Hardy to about -20°c. A very ornamental plant, there are some named varieties selected for their ornamental value. Grows well in a woodland. Most members of this genus are shallow-rooted and will produce suckers if the roots are damaged. Plants are susceptible to silver leaf disease. Plants in this genus are notably susceptible to honey fungus. The flowers are pleasantly scented. Any trimming is best done with secateurs in August. Plants are very tolerant of pruning.

Propagating it: Seed - requires 2 - 3 months cold stratification and is best sown in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe. Sow stored seed in a cold frame as early in the year as possible. Protect the seed from mice etc. The seed can be rather slow, sometimes taking 18 months to germinate. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle. Grow them on in a greenhouse or cold frame for their first winter and plant them out in late spring or early summer of the following year. Cuttings of half-ripe wood with a heel, July/August in a frame. Cuttings of mature wood, October in a sheltered north facing border outdoors. Layering in spring.

Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Hedge;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 6-9

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Although no specific mention has been seen for this species, it belongs to a genus where most, if not all members of the genus produce hydrogen cyanide, a poison that gives almonds their characteristic flavour. This toxin is found mainly in the leaves and seed and is readily detected by its bitter taste. It is usually present in too small a quantity to do any harm but any very bitter seed or fruit should not be eaten. In small quantities, hydrogen cyanide has been shown to stimulate respiration and improve digestion, it is also claimed to be of benefit in the treatment of cancer. In excess, however, it can cause respiratory failure and even death.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Laurocerasus lusitanica. Padus lusitanica.