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.