Cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is a fast-growing evergreen shrub with large glossy leaves, widely planted for dense screening hedges. It grows in sun and in deep shade, in most soils that are not waterlogged, preferably humus-rich with pH 5.5–7.0. Plant container plants in April or in September–October, 60–80 cm apart for a hedge, and water well through the first year. Trim once after flowering in June and, if needed, again in late August. Use hand shears or secateurs rather than a powered hedge trimmer, which slices through the big leaves and leaves ugly brown edges. Young plants can be damaged by hard frost and cold winter sun; varieties such as 'Otto Luyken' and 'Novita' are among the hardiest. Water well before the ground freezes, as evergreens keep losing moisture all winter, and cut back frost-damaged branches in March. All parts of the plant, especially the seeds and leaves, are poisonous, so take care where children or pets play.