Prunus laurocerasus 'Schipkaensis' -

The Schip Cherry Laurel or, commonly called, Skip Laurel, is one of the most popular evergreen shrubs for hedges. Maturing in the 10 to 16 foot tall range, this dense foliage shrub is a favorite with homeowners for privacy hedges. Tolerant of salt and urban pollution, this easy to grow evergreen shrub is hardy in zones 6 to 9 for part to full sun areas. 

White fragrant blooms appear in spring morphing into small black drupes by mid summer for the birds.

Schip Laurel is excellent for edging woodland garden settings, as part of a windbreak, wildlife gardens and privacy screens.

Growing Skip Laurels

Schip or Skip Cherry Laurels are one of the easiest evergreen shrubs to grow. The Skip Laurel often grows up to 2 feet in a year until it reaches its 10 to 16 foot mature height. Light topping or pruning of your laurels over spring or summer can help the plants become fuller and keep them at your desired height. The tough foliage keeps it more deer resistant than other shrubs for hedges.

Space your Skip Laurel Shrubs about 5 feet apart for a solid green screen for privacy from your neighbors. Fertilize in spring through summer with a timed release fertilize blend if needed. It is always best to test your soil before applying fertilizers.