Prunus caroliniana, commonly known as Carolina Cherry Laurel, is a fast growing evergreen tree or large shrub that’s widely used for screening and privacy. It’s a strong choice when you need dense coverage and a clean, formal look.

The foliage is glossy, deep green, and fairly broad, giving it a lush, full appearance. It forms a tight canopy that blocks views effectively, making it one of the more reliable options for creating privacy.

In spring, it produces small, creamy white flowers that are lightly fragrant, followed by dark berries that add seasonal interest. These berries are attractive to birds, which can spread the seeds, allowing the plant to reseed and naturalize in surrounding areas if not managed.

It naturally grows upright and can be maintained as a large hedge or trained into a tree form. It responds well to pruning, making it easy to shape and control depending on the design.

Because of its density and growth rate, it’s commonly used for screening along property lines or as a backdrop in larger landscapes.

Prunus caroliniana grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers well drained soil. Once established, it is fairly drought tolerant and adaptable to a range of conditions.

It can reach about 20 to 40 feet tall and 15 to 25 feet wide if left unpruned, though it is often maintained much smaller. It is well suited for USDA zones 7 through 10. The foliage is evergreen.

This plant has moderate toxicity, especially the leaves and seeds, and should not be ingested.

The flowers attract pollinators such as bees, and the berries may attract birds.

It is generally deer resistant.

Prunus caroliniana fits especially well into formal, Mediterranean, and screening-focused garden designs, where its dense growth can be used to create privacy and structure.

It pairs well with plants like Viburnum tinus to create a layered evergreen screen, Leucophyllum frutescens to introduce a contrasting, drought tolerant texture, and Trachelospermum jasminoides (Star Jasmine) to create a fragrant, low growing layer beneath.

Expert Tip:

Place this where you need fast, dense screening, but monitor for volunteer seedlings, because it can reseed and spread into nearby areas. Regular pruning and occasional cleanup will help keep it contained and looking intentional.

— Nick from Rooted Theory 

Note:  5 gallon sizes may range from 2.5-3.5 feet tall.  15 gallon sizes may range from 5-6' by 14" wide.  24" boxes are approx 7-8 feet tall by 20" wide at the base.  Note that 25 gallon plastic tubs may be substituted for 24" wood boxes.  These are averages.  Please inquire if you desire a more specific current height spec.