HN 5Gal Prunus caroliniana 'Compacta'

runus caroliniana 'Compacta' (Dwarf Carolina Laurel Cherry) - A smaller and more compact grower than the species, this moderately fast growing evergreen shrub has an upright habit growth typically to 10 and 12 feet tall with a 3 to 6 foot spread but often kept considerably smaller. It has attractive 2 to 3 inch long glossy bright green narrowly elliptic leaves that have slightly wavy margins and when crushed have the distinctive odor of cherries or almond extract. In late winter into early spring appear the sweetly fragrant white flowers born amongst the foliage that are followed by purple-black berries. Plant in full to part sun in a fairly well-drained soil. It is relatively drought tolerant once established but has fairly shallow roots and best when given occasional irrigation. Hardy to 0°F and useful in USDA Zones 7 to 10.