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Description
Prunus Laurocerasus Otto Luyken, commonly known as Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel, is an evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is a low-growing, compact plant that is widely used in landscaping. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is popular for its glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers. The plant can grow up to 3-4 feet in height and spread up to 6-8 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Prunus |
Appearance
The Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel has glossy, dark green leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a pointed tip. The plant produces fragrant white flowers in the spring that are followed by small, black berries in the fall. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and is often used as a hedge or border plant.
Care Guide
The Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather. Water deeply and regularly, but do not overwater.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues that may occur:
- Scales: Scales are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control scales.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause brown spots on leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control leaf spot.
Habitat
The Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in woodland areas, rocky slopes, and along stream banks. It is widely used in landscaping and is suitable for various landscapes such as borders, hedges, and foundation plantings.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers. Make sure to use a well-drained soil mix and water regularly.
Q: Do I need to prune the Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel?
A: Pruning is not necessary, but you can prune the plant to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Is the Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Prunus Laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’ (Skip Laurel)
- Prunus Laurocerasus ‘Zabeliana’ (Compact Cherry Laurel)
- Prunus Laurocerasus ‘Mount Vernon’ (Mount Vernon Cherry Laurel)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Stipes Publishing LLC.
- USDA Plants Database. (2021). Prunus laurocerasus Otto Luyken. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PRLAO
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2021). Prunus laurocerasus Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP110
