Cherry Laurel

Prunus caroliniana, also known as cherry laurel, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to low woods, fields, and thickets in the southeastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 15-20', but can reach up to 40' in tree form. The plant features glossy, lanceolate-oblong dark green leaves 2-4" long with pointed tips. Fragrant white flowers, each about 3/16" across, bloom in dense racemes 2-3" long in late winter to early spring. These are followed by green fruits that turn reddish-purple before ripening in fall to shiny black. The fruits are popular with birds.