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Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’ – Dwarf English Laurel

Q: How tall and wide does Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ grow at maturity?

Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ typically reaches 2–3 feet in height and 3–4 feet in width, forming a dense, rounded evergreen shrub that fits perfectly into small gardens, knot gardens, or formal borders. Its compact growth habit makes it easy to design low hedges or foundation plantings without constant trimming. This manageable size and slow to moderate growth rate allow gardeners to create neat, formal low hedges or accent plantings that stay attractive year-round while requiring minimal pruning or maintenance.

Q: Does Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ produce fragrant flowers?

Yes—each spring, Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ is covered in fragrant white flower spikes that attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. These blooms add seasonal charm and subtle fragrance to shaded or sunny gardens, making the shrub a standout even when other plants have yet to flower. The combination of glossy evergreen foliage and spring-blooming white flowers gives this compact cherry laurel both four-season color and a natural fragrance that enhances walkways, patios, and garden borders.

Q: Is Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ deer-resistant?

Yes—Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ is naturally deer-resistant, making it an excellent evergreen for landscapes where deer browsing can damage more tender shrubs. Its aromatic, leathery foliage is unappealing to deer, which helps maintain the shrub’s dense, glossy look without protective fencing or sprays. This deer-resistant evergreen hedge is perfect for suburban and rural gardens alike, providing low-maintenance year-round greenery in areas with heavy wildlife pressure.

Q: How does Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ compare to Otto Luyken Laurel?

While both are compact cherry laurels, Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ stays slightly smaller and more rounded than Otto Luyken, typically topping out around 2–3 feet tall. Its slower growth and dense, formal habit make it especially suitable for low hedges and tight garden spaces. Otto Luyken Laurel can reach 3–4 feet in height, so gardeners who want the lowest possible hedge with classic cherry laurel fragrance and evergreen foliage often choose ‘Nana’ for its refined size and lower maintenance needs.

Q: Can Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ be used in formal knot gardens or parterre designs?

Absolutely—this compact, shade-tolerant evergreen shrub is a classic choice for knot gardens, parterres, and formal low hedges. Its dense, dark green foliage defines crisp geometric patterns, creating year-round structure that complements seasonal blooms. Because of its slow, controlled growth, Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ requires only occasional light pruning to maintain precise lines, making it a low-maintenance solution for elegant formal garden designs.

Prunus laurocerasus 'Nana'

“Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’, or Dwarf English Laurel, is a perfect choice when customers want a low, evergreen hedge that thrives in sun or shade with very little maintenance. The fragrant white flowers in spring, combined with glossy green foliage and natural deer resistance, give it four-season appeal. Whether you’re edging a walkway, shaping a knot garden, or framing a patio, this compact cherry laurel delivers timeless beauty and effortless performance.”

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Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’ – Dwarf English Laurel for Low Evergreen Hedges

Compact evergreen elegance for low hedges and borders.
Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’, commonly known as Dwarf English Laurel Nana or Compact Cherry Laurel, is prized for its neat, evergreen foliage and naturally low growth habit. Reaching approximately 2–3 feet tall and 3–4 feet wide, it forms a dense, glossy green hedge that is ideal for knot gardens, foundation plantings, and formal borders. Its classic look and manageable size make it a favorite for both traditional and modern landscapes.

Fragrant spring blooms and year-round color.
In late spring, this shade-tolerant evergreen shrub produces fragrant white flower spikes that attract bees and butterflies and add seasonal charm. Even when not in bloom, the rich, dark green leaves provide year-round texture and color, giving your garden four-season appeal. This deer-resistant dwarf laurel stays attractive without constant upkeep.

Low-maintenance and adaptable.
Hardy in USDA Zones 6–9, Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’ thrives in full sun to full shade and adapts to a wide range of soils as long as drainage is good. Its slow to moderate growth rate means it needs only occasional light pruning to maintain a formal shape, making it perfect for low hedges, shaded gardens, and small-space landscapes.

A timeless, dependable evergreen hedge choice.
Whether edging a walkway, framing a patio, or creating a low privacy screen, this compact cherry laurel provides year-round structure, fragrant spring flowers, and reliable deer resistance. Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ is a low-maintenance evergreen solution that delivers classic garden style for decades.

Growzone: 6-9

Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’ – Dwarf English Laurel Hardiness Zones 6-9

Hardiness Zone:	6-9
Mature Height:	2 to 3 feet
Mature Width:	3 to 4 feet
Classification:	Broad leaved evergreen shrub
Sunlight:	Full sun to part shade
Habit:	Densely branched, spreading
Foliage:	Dark green evergreen leaves
Flower Color:	White fragrant flowers that produce black fruit
Pruning Season:	Prune in spring after flowering
Soil Condition:	Any well drained soil
Water Requirements:	Water well until established
Uses:	Extremely attractive when used as in the mixed border, foundations, or planted in mass. Works well as a hedge

How to Care for Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’ – Dwarf English Laurel

Once you buy a Dwarf English Laurel 'nana', make sure to read about the care instructions that are recommended to keep this plant healthy and thriving.

How do I plant Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’ for a low evergreen hedge?

Choose a site with full sun to full shade and well-drained soil. Dig holes twice as wide as the root ball and space plants 3–4 feet apart for a dense hedge or wider for individual accents. Set the shrub so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil, backfill halfway, water thoroughly to settle, then finish filling and water again. Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Plant in spring or early fall to give roots time to establish before the heat of summer or winter cold.

How often should I water Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ after planting?

During the first growing season, water deeply once or twice a week, letting the soil dry slightly between waterings. Consistent moisture encourages deep root growth and helps maintain the lush, glossy evergreen foliage. Once established, this drought-tolerant cherry laurel typically needs supplemental water only during extended dry spells. Mulch helps conserve soil moisture and protects roots from temperature extremes.

When and how should I fertilize Prunus laurocerasus ‘Nana’?

Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release shrub fertilizer to promote healthy foliage and steady growth. Spread fertilizer evenly around the drip line and water thoroughly to move nutrients into the soil. A single annual feeding is typically sufficient to keep the dense, dark green leaves vibrant and the plant looking neat all season.

Do Dwarf English Laurel ‘Nana’ shrubs require regular pruning?

This variety naturally maintains a compact, rounded shape, so heavy pruning is rarely needed. In late spring or early summer, after the white flower spikes fade, lightly shear or hand-prune to keep the desired size or formal hedge lines. Avoid cutting into old wood, as cherry laurel does not regenerate from bare stems. Occasional light pruning keeps your formal evergreen border or knot garden looking crisp and elegant year-round.