Cherry Laurel

Scientific Name: Prunus caroliniana
Common Names: Carolina Cherry Laurel, Cherry Laurel
Native to: Southeastern United States (from North Carolina to Texas)
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 15–40 feet (typically  15-20' feet here)
Width: 10–30 feet (typically 10-15 feet here)
Winter Look: Evergreen; glossy, dark green leaves year-round
Seasonal Interest: Fragrant, creamy-white flowers in early spring; small black berries in fall
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; tolerates dry conditions once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained soil; adaptable to sandy, loamy, or clay soils; tolerates limestone  soils
pH Range: 5.5–7.5 (acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7–10
Deer Resistance: Moderate; deer may occasionally browse foliage but generally avoid it
Attracts: Birds (berries) and pollinators (flowers)
Toxicity: Toxic to humans and pets if ingested (leaves, seeds, and berries contain cyanogenic compounds)
Potential Issues: Susceptible to leaf spot and root rot in poorly drained soils
Notes: Prunus caroliniana is often used as a hedge, screen, or small ornamental tree. It grows quickly and requires minimal maintenance but benefits from occasional pruning.

Cherry Laurel prefers deep soil, though I've seen them happy and healthy in the Edwards Plateau ecoregion. In some cases, they are heavy feeders, so if they start to yellow, give them some fertilizer (most commonly deficient in iron).