Prunus laurocerasus (Syn. 'Castlewellan') 'MARBLED WHITE' cherry laurel, common laurel, English laurel
Prunus
The genus Prunus is quite extensive and, above all, remarkably diverse – it includes around 350 different species, some of which you would hardly place in the same group at first glance. Its representatives occur from Asia through Europe and North Africa to North America. The genus comprises trees and shrubs valued mainly for their abundant and attractive flowering, as well as species with delicious edible fruits, and in this particular case an evergreen species whose persistent foliage becomes especially important during the dormant season, when most other woody plants are leafless. This species is known as cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) and originates from regions around the Black Sea, the Caucasus, and northern Turkey, where it grows in submontane forests and on moist, shaded slopes. Its glossy, leathery leaves resemble those of true laurel, and this similarity that gave rise to its name – lauro‑cerasus, meaning “laurel cherry.” It reached Europe as early as the 16th century and, thanks to its frost hardiness, is today one of the most important evergreen woody plants even in Central European climate.
Cherry laurel was scientifically described in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus in his seminal work Species Plantarum, where it received its still accepted name Prunus laurocerasus. A later, now obsolete name, Laurocerasus officinalis, nevertheless points to a much older history of cultivation and use. A laurel‑like plant identified with cherry laurel is already mentioned by Theophrastus, Dioscorides and Pliny the Elder, who noted its unusual properties. From the leaves of cherry laurel, a distillate known as aqua laurocerasi was prepared and, when used with due caution, employed as a sedative – hence the Latin epithet officinalis, meaning medicinal. Historically and with documentary support, cherry laurel, its introduction, and its first cultivation in European gardens can be traced to the year 1576. This date fits well within the period of diplomatic missions between the Ottoman Empire and the Habsburgs, when seeds, cuttings, and young plants of previously unknown species were brought from Constantinople to Central Europe through networks associated with figures such as the imperial envoy David Ungnad (1530–1600) and the botanist Carolus Clusius (1526–1609). The transfer of newly discovered plants was regarded as a gift equal in value to gold, works of art, or archaeological finds, and represented an important expression of learning, prestige, and practical knowledge of the natural world.
The Northern Irish cherry laurel selection known as ‘Castlewellan’, marketed elsewhere in Europe as Marbled White, is a true treat for lovers of variegated foliage. And by reliably variegated, we really mean it: the marbled pattern that defines the plant and captivates at first glance is stable and remains unchanged throughout the season and over the plant’s lifetime. Only in winter may the variegation appear slightly subdued in some clones. It forms an upright, moderately fast‑growing shrub with a broad, fan‑shaped habit. Annual growth averages around 30 cm, producing dense, well‑branched growth. The evergreen leaves are leathery, narrowly oval to broadly elliptic, typically 12–14 cm long and up to 4 cm wide, decorated with rich veining in shades ranging from white through cream to very pale green (never yellow). Note: several clones of this cultivar are in circulation, differing according to the mother plant; each shows a different intensity of variegation, that is, a different balance between green and white colouring. Blooming is sparce and somewhat unreliable.
The cultivar was discovered in Castlewellan Arboretum in County Down, Northern Ireland, sometime in the early 20th century – and it is no coincidence that it happened there. The arboretum ranks among the most important dendrological collections in Europe, developed systematically from the late 19th century by Hugh Annesley, 5th Earl Annesley. By around 1900, more than 1,800 species and cultivars of woody plants were already growing there, with a particular focus on unusual forms, colour mutations and variegated foliage. The discovery of a variegated cherry laurel here fits naturally into a long tradition of a place with a keen eye for foliar colour and the conditions to support it.
Cherry laurels require moist but well‑drained soil, ideally acidic to neutral and rich in nutrients. They do not tolerate compacted, heavy clay, muddy, or permanently waterlogged soils. They are sensitive to lime in the soil, which most commonly manifests as chlorosis – the leaves lose their green colour and the vein pattern becomes pronounced. Similar symptoms may also occur in cases of nutrient deficiency. In both situations, the application of magnesium sulphate (Epsom salt), organic fertilisers, or adjustment of soil pH towards a more acidic reaction is beneficial. They tolerate pruning of any intensity and respond particularly well to rejuvenation pruning into old wood, from which they readily regenerate. The best time for pruning is in spring after the risk of frost has passed; shaping cuts are carried out in mid‑summer. Because they retain their leaves year‑round – even in winter – and continuously transpire water, they require an adequate supply of moisture. Until a sufficiently deep root system develops, it is advisable to water them at least once a month during dry winters to prevent dehydration and subsequent leaf scorch caused by strong winter sun. To retain moisture and protect against temperature fluctuations, year‑round mulching is strongly recommended. ‘Marbled White’ has proven reliable in practice down to approximately −22 °C (USDA zone 6); in more severe winters, shoot tips may suffer from dehydration damage, but plants recover well in spring. In marginal locations, planting in winter shade is beneficial.
Last update 01-02-2009; 07-01-2026
