Gardening enthusiasts and professional landscapers, we've got the perfect plant for your next project! Meet the Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’, commonly known as Schip Laurel. This versatile and attractive shrub can elevate any garden space with its glossy, deep green leaves, fragrant white flowers, and lush growth.
Imagine creating a beautiful, dense hedge that not only offers privacy but also adds an element of elegance to your landscape. In this blog post, we'll explore everything you need to know about Schip Laurel, from its stunning features to how you can best incorporate it into your garden. Let's dig in!
The Alluring Appeal of Schip Laurel
Schip Laurel is a standout in any garden, thanks to its attractive and lustrous foliage. The deep green, lance-shaped leaves range from 2 to 6 inches long and grow perpendicular to the branches. This gives the shrub a unique and structured appearance.
In the spring, the Schip Laurel becomes even more captivating as spikes of fragrant white flowers cover the plant. These flowers eventually mature into purple-black fruits by late summer. Not only do they add visual interest, but they also attract bees and songbirds, bringing life and movement to your garden.
However, it's essential to note that all parts of the Schip Laurel, including the leaves and berries, are poisonous to humans and animals. Keep this in mind when planting in areas accessible to children or pets.
Growth Rate and Size
One of the great features of Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’ is its moderate growth rate. The shrub grows about 1 to 2 feet per year, reaching a height of 10 feet and a width of 4 feet in just 10 years. If left unpruned, it can grow even taller, up to 18 feet high and 7 feet wide.
This makes the Schip Laurel an excellent choice for creating tall, dense hedges or privacy screens. Whether you're looking to create a windbreak, a boundary around your property, or simply add some greenery to an entranceway, this plant has got you covered.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Schip Laurel thrives in various conditions, making it an adaptable and low-maintenance option for gardeners of all skill levels. It grows best in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay.
While it prefers well-drained soil, it can also handle some degree of moisture. However, avoid planting it in areas with standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Schip Laurel can thrive in full sun to partial shade, offering flexibility in where you can place it in your garden.
Uses in the Landscape
The dense, evergreen foliage and narrow form of the Schip Laurel make it a superb hedge for different purposes. Here are some ways you can use it in your landscape:
Privacy Screens
Create a natural barrier around your pool, patio, or property line with a row of Schip Laurels. Their dense foliage provides excellent coverage and privacy year-round.
Windbreaks
If you're dealing with strong winds, Schip Laurels can act as an effective windbreak, protecting more delicate plants and creating a sheltered microclimate in your garden.
Entranceways
Line your driveway or entrance with Schip Laurels to create a grand and welcoming path. Their structured growth and lush foliage offer a sophisticated touch to any entrance.
Urban Gardens
Schip Laurels are also well-suited for urban gardens, where space might be limited. Their narrow form allows them to fit into small spaces while still providing substantial greenery and privacy.
Woodland and Wildlife Gardens
Add Schip Laurels to the edge of woodland gardens or wildlife habitats to create a seamless transition between cultivated and natural spaces. Their flowers attract bees, while their berries provide food for songbirds, enhancing biodiversity.
Companion Plants for Schip Laurel
To create a visually stunning garden, consider pairing Schip Laurel with companion plants that have similar growing requirements. Here are some excellent options:
Shrubs
- Japanese Andromeda (Pieris japonica): Offers beautiful clusters of white or pink flowers and adds a touch of elegance.
- Clethra (Clethra alnifolia): Known for its fragrant summer blooms and tolerance to shade.
- Weigela (Weigela Florida): Produces vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds.
- Spiraea (Spiraea spp.): Adds a burst of color with its bright pink or white blooms.
- Abelia (Abelia x grandiflora): Features fragrant, tubular flowers that bloom from summer to fall.
- Nandina (Nandina domestica): Provides year-round interest with its colorful foliage and red berries.
Flowering Perennials
- Astilbe (Astilbe spp.): Offers feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, white, and red.
- Coral Bells (Heuchera spp.): Known for its colorful foliage and delicate flower spikes.
- Foamy Bells (Heucherella spp.): A hybrid of Heuchera and Tiarella, offering attractive foliage and flowers.
- Hellebores (Helleborus spp.): Provides early spring blooms in a range of colors.
- Lily-of-the-Valley (Convallaria majalis): Known for its fragrant, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in late spring.
These companion plants not only complement the dark green leaves of the Schip Laurel but also add layers of color and texture to your garden.
Caring for Your Schip Laurel
One of the reasons Schip Laurel is so popular among gardeners is its low-maintenance nature. Here are some tips to keep your Schip Laurel healthy and thriving:
Watering
While Schip Laurel is relatively drought-tolerant once established, it's essential to water it regularly during the first year after planting. This helps the roots establish themselves. After that, water as needed, especially during dry spells.
Fertilizing
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Schip Laurel responds well to pruning, which helps maintain its shape and size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back any overgrown areas to keep the shrub looking neat.
Pest and Disease Management
While Schip Laurel is generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases, it's still a good idea to keep an eye out for common issues like aphids, scale, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection and prompt treatment can help prevent these problems from becoming severe.
Conclusion
Prunus laurocerasus ‘Schipkaensis’ Schip Laurel is a versatile and attractive addition to any garden. Whether you're a professional landscaper or a home gardener, this shrub offers a range of benefits, from its lush, evergreen foliage to its fragrant flowers and berries.
By incorporating Schip Laurel into your landscape, you can create stunning hedges, windbreaks, and privacy screens that enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. Pair it with complementary shrubs and perennials to create a visually appealing garden that's sure to impress.
Ready to transform your garden with Schip Laurel? Don't wait—start planning your next landscaping project today and experience the beauty and versatility of this remarkable shrub. For personalized advice and recommendations, consider booking a consultation with a professional landscaper who can help you make the most of your garden space. Happy gardening!
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