Cherry Laurel – why so many luxury gardens use it
Some plants immediately make a garden feel more expensive. Cherry Laurel is one of them.
For years I associated it mostly with elegant English gardens and modern homes hidden behind deep green hedges. Then I started seeing it more often in contemporary European landscapes, and I finally understood why designers love it so much.
It has something many hedge plants lack:
- rich texture;
- large glossy leaves;
- a calm presence;
- and a naturally luxurious look.
Unlike many overly formal hedges, Cherry Laurel feels softer and more natural while still creating privacy and structure.
Some plants create a fence. Cherry Laurel creates atmosphere.
What exactly is Cherry Laurel
Cherry Laurel is an evergreen shrub often used for dense hedges and elegant green screens.
Its popularity comes from several things:
- fast growth;
- large glossy leaves;
- dense structure;
- and a very refined appearance.
Even young plants already look full and established, which is one reason so many people choose it for modern gardens.
Why it looks more luxurious than many other hedges
I think the answer is texture.
Most mass-planted hedges create one flat green wall. Cherry Laurel feels deeper, softer and more alive because of the movement and shine of its leaves.
Light reflects beautifully on it, especially in the evening or after rain.
That alone can completely change how a garden feels.
It creates privacy very quickly
This is another major reason people love it.
Cherry Laurel grows relatively fast and creates a dense green screen in much less time than many other hedge plants.
It can:
- hide neighboring buildings;
- reduce noise visually;
- make a garden feel calmer;
- and frame outdoor spaces beautifully.
Once established, it completely changes the atmosphere of a yard.
The best hedges don’t just block views. They make the entire garden feel more complete.
But Cherry Laurel is not perfect
And I think this is important to say honestly.
In very hot and dry climates it can struggle more than tougher plants like Leyland Cypress or Elaeagnus.
Especially:
- in full harsh sun;
- with dry soil;
- without irrigation;
- or in windy conditions.
Its large leaves lose moisture quickly during extreme heat.
So while it looks luxurious, it is not always the easiest low-maintenance option.
Cherry Laurel vs Thuja
Cherry Laurel
Advantages:
- more luxurious appearance;
- large glossy leaves;
- softer and more natural look;
- beautiful texture;
- excellent privacy.
Disadvantages:
- needs more water;
- can struggle in extreme heat;
- requires pruning.
Thuja
Advantages:
- formal appearance;
- compact structure;
- easy uniform hedge.
Disadvantages:
- often looks artificial;
- can brown easily;
- suffers from drought and mites.
How I would use Cherry Laurel today
I think it looks best in gardens that combine structure with softness.
I would pair it with:
- ornamental grasses;
- olive trees;
- light stone;
- modern architecture;
- and softer Mediterranean-style planting.
That combination creates an incredibly elegant atmosphere.
The most beautiful luxury gardens rarely rely on flashy plants. They rely on structure, texture and calmness.
My honest conclusion about Cherry Laurel
I completely understand why so many high-end gardens use it.
It creates privacy, softness and elegance all at the same time.
And unlike many trendy plants, it still feels timeless.