Holly-leafed cherry
Laurocerasus ilicifolia

Family: Rosaceae

What it is like

An evergreen shrub or small tree. It has many branches. It grows 8 m high and spreads 6 m wide. The leaves are leathery and glossy. They are like holly leaves with spiny edges. The flowers are small and cream or white. The fruit are red or yellow.

There are about 200 Prunus species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It suits hardiness zones 9-11. Hobart Botanical Gardens 1

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia, North America, Tasmania, USA

How it is used for food

The fruit are sweet and are eaten fresh. They can be dried or made into a drink. The seed kernel can be crushed and made into a meal. After leaching it is used in bread and soups. The roots and leaves are dried and ground and added to food dishes.

Edible parts

Fruit, seeds, roots

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Islay, Chimaja

Synonyms

Cerasus ilicifolia Nutt. ex Hook. & Arn.; Prunus ilicifolia (Nutt. ex Hook. & Arn.) D. Dietr.; Prunus ilicifolia (Nutt. ex Hook. & Arn.) Walp.;