Overview of Cerasus laurocerasus (L.) Loisel.
Cerasus laurocerasus, commonly known as Cherry Laurel, is a woody evergreen shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. Its name is derived from the Latin term ‘prunus laurocerasus.' According to botanical records, Cerasus laurocerasus originated in Eastern Europe and Asia minor. This plant is popularly cultivated all over the world, especially in the United States, Europe, and regions of the Mediterranean. It grows up to 10-18 feet tall and wide and thrives in well-drained soils with adequate sunlight and partial shade.
Appearance of Cerasus laurocerasus
Cerasus laurocerasus is an evergreen shrub with glossy, ovate leaves, which appear alternate singly on its branch. The leaves are dark green, measuring about 4-10 cm long and up to 4 cm broad. The plant produces white fragrant flowers that bloom between April and June. The fruit of the Cerasus laurocerasus is a drupe, which are green initially, but turn red when mature. The fruit measures between 1-2 cm and is edible, but should be consumed with caution due to its poisonous leaves and stems.
Uses of Cerasus laurocerasus
The Cerasus laurocerasus plant has numerous uses, including ornamental, medicinal, and culinary purposes. As an ornamental plant, Cherry Laurel is grown in gardens, parks, and other landscapes to add greenery, decorative borders, or hedges. The plant's leaves, stem, and roots contain cyanide, making it a critical ingredient in the production of some drugs and medicine such as prunasin and amygdalin supplements.
In the culinary world, the Cherry Laurel leaves are dried and used as a spice to add an aromatic flavor to stews, soups, and sauces. It is popular in Mediterranean cuisine and often used to prepare culinary dishes such as a Bolognese. The leaves are highly toxic and should not be eaten raw, but cooked as an herb or used to wrap meat before grilling.
Despite its uses, the Cerasus laurocerasus plant has some limitations. The leaves and stems contain hydrocyanic acid, which can cause seizures and convulsions if consumed in excess. The plant is toxic to cats, dogs, and other livestock, making it a toxic hazard if grown near these animals.
Light Requirements
Cerasus laurocerasus grows best in areas where the plant is exposed to sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. However, it can also do well in partial shade. If exposed to too much direct sunlight, the leaves can scorch and ultimately decline. Therefore, it is essential to find a spot that provides a balance between sunlight and shade.
Temperature Requirements
Cerasus laurocerasus is adaptable to different temperature ranges, although it requires a certain level of consistency. The plant's optimal temperature range is between 15°C to 24°C (60°F to 75°F), but it can still survive in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F). However, prolonged exposure to very high or very low temperatures can cause the plant's leaves to wither and drop off.
Soil Requirements
Cerasus laurocerasus can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it thrives in well-draining soils that are fertile and moist. The soil should be more on the acidic side (pH 5.5 to 6.5) and rich in organic matter. It is best to avoid waterlogged and compacted soils. When planting, the soil should be enriched with compost and other organic fertilizers to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Cerasus laurocerasus, also known as cherry laurel, is a plant that can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions from clay to sandy loam. It prefers a well-draining soil and can grow in full sunlight or partial shade. When planting, it is important to ensure that there is enough space for the plant to grow, which can reach up to 30 feet in height and 20 feet in width.
Watering Needs
Cherry laurel requires regular watering, especially during the first year after planting to promote root growth and establish the plant. It is best to water deeply once a week rather than lightly every day. During periods of drought, it may require additional watering to prevent the leaves from wilting.
Fertilization
The application of fertilizer can help in promoting the growth and health of cherry laurel. A well-balanced, slow-release fertilizer can be applied in early spring before the growth season starts. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rate and frequency.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of cherry laurel's care, which helps in maintaining its shape and size and preventing it from becoming overgrown. The best time to prune cherry laurel is in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed to promote plant health. It is also good to thin out congested areas of branches to promote better air circulation.
Propagation of Cerasus laurocerasus (L.) Loisel.
Cerasus laurocerasus (L.) Loisel. can be propagated through various techniques, including seed propagation, cuttings, layering, and division.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Cerasus laurocerasus (L.) Loisel. are collected from ripe fruit. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, covered lightly, and kept moist. The seeds typically germinate within 4-6 weeks. Seed propagation can be an unreliable method, as the offspring may not exhibit the same characteristics as the parent plant.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from Cerasus laurocerasus (L.) Loisel. during the summer. Semi-hardwood cuttings, approximately 10cm long, should be taken from the current year's growth. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a humid environment until roots have formed, and the new plant can be transplanted into soil.
Layering
Layering is a propagation method in which roots are encouraged to form on a stem while it is still attached to the parent plant. The stem is bent down to soil level, and a small portion of the stem is scraped to expose the cambium layer. The wounded area is then buried in soil, and the stem is supported. Roots will typically form within 6-12 months, and the new plant can then be separated from the parent and transplanted into soil.
Division
Cerasus laurocerasus (L.) Loisel. can also be propagated through division. Mature plants can be dug up and separated into smaller sections, and each section can be transplanted into soil. Division should be done during the plant's dormant season and may result in a loss of foliage, but new growth will emerge in the spring.
Disease Management for Cerasus laurocerasus
There are several common diseases that can affect Cerasus laurocerasus, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and fire blight.
Leaf spot can be managed by removing infected leaves as soon as they are noticed and ensuring good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew can be controlled by removing infected leaves and increasing air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread.
Fire blight is a more serious bacterial disease that can cause wilting and death of the plant. Infected branches should be pruned and destroyed, and copper-based fungicides can be applied to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Cerasus laurocerasus
There are also several pests that can affect Cerasus laurocerasus, including scale insects, spider mites, and cherry fruit fly.
Scale insects can be controlled by pruning out heavily infested branches and applying horticultural oil sprays to the remaining plant. Biological control agents like ladybugs can also be introduced to help control the population of scale insects.
Spider mites can be controlled by applying a miticide or insecticidal soap to the plant. As with scale insects, biological control agents like ladybugs can also be used to help control the population of spider mites.
Cherry fruit fly can be managed by planting early maturing cherry cultivars or by removing and destroying infected fruit. Pheromone traps can also be used to monitor and control the population of cherry fruit flies.
