Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Cherry Laurel |
| MainColor | White |
| PlantType |  Shrub |
| Growth Type |  Cultivated |
| Season | April |
| ImageUrl | Prunus-003 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location | Abbots Langley |
| Human Toxicity |  Highly_Toxic |
Flower Details
Description
Cherry Laurel is an evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy, dark green leaves and clusters of small, fragrant white flowers. It produces black or dark purple berries that are often hidden by the foliage.
Distribution
Native to regions around the Black Sea, it is widely cultivated in Europe and North America for ornamental purposes and as a hedge plant.
Medicinal/Other Uses
✅ Traditionally used for its sedative and antispasmodic properties, though caution is advised due to its toxicity.
Edibility
Caution Advised - berries and leaves contain toxic compounds and should not be consumed without processing.
Human Toxicity
Highly Toxic - ingestion can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, convulsions, and potentially death due to cyanide release.
Pet Toxicity
Highly Toxic to dogs and cats - ingestion can lead to severe symptoms including difficulty breathing and seizures.
Active Compounds
Prunasin, amygdalin, cyanogenic glycosides.