Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel

Botanical Name: Prunus laurocerasus ‘Otto Luyken’

Common Name: Otto Luyken Cherry Laurel

Mature Height and Width:
3–4' tall × 6–8' wide

Growth Habit: Low, spreading evergreen shrub with a broad, layered structure. Branches grow outward horizontally before gently arching. Dense but not upright. Moderate growth rate.

Foliage Description: Narrow, glossy dark green evergreen leaves with smooth margins. Leaves are more slender than standard cherry laurel types and create a refined texture.

Flower Description: Upright white flower spikes held above the foliage in spring; lightly fragrant.

Bloom Time: Mid to late spring

Fall Color: Evergreen

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; performs well in filtered light.

Hardiness Zone: USDA Zones 6–9

Notable Landscape Uses:
Low foundation plantings; mass plantings; slope stabilization; foreground evergreen layer; low hedge; mixed shrub borders; underplanting for taller evergreens.

Deer Resistance: Moderate-High
Generally not a preferred browse, though tender new growth may be sampled in high-pressure areas. Established plants typically tolerate minor browsing.