Bare Root Common Laurel Hedging 20-40cm (Prunus Rotundifolia)

Bare root Common Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia') hedging plants are ideal for fast-growing, dense garden privacy screens. These evergreen plants grow 30–60cm per year and tolerate a range of soils, including clay and heavy types, making them suitable for most UK gardens.

Key Features

• Growth Rate: 30–60cm/year for rapid screening
• Plant Size Supplied: 20–40cm bare root
• Sun & Soil: Thrives in full sun or partial shade, adapts to moist, well-drained or clay soil
• Maintenance: Prune annually for a dense, manageable hedge
• Flowers: White spring blooms attract pollinators
• Alternative To: Quicker, fuller growth than many conifers, including Leylandii

Frequently Asked Questions

Is common laurel a good fast-growing hedge for privacy in my garden?

Yes, with growth of 30–60cm yearly, it's among the fastest evergreen hedges for privacy screens.

Can I plant bare root laurels in clay soil?

Prunus laurocerasus 'Rotundifolia' grows well in almost all soil types, including clay and heavy soils, as long as drainage is adequate.

How does it compare to Leylandii?

Compared to Leylandii, Laurel offers broader leaves for better screening, is more tolerant of pruning, and typically less prone to browning.

Are bare root plants cost-effective?

Bare root laurels are the best value option for starting a hedge, especially in winter planting season.

What care is needed?

Annual pruning post-establishment keeps the hedge dense; water well after planting and use Rootgrow mycorrhizal feed for best results.

Planting and care

This is a bare-root plant, supplied dormant between November and March. Plant within a few days of arrival for best results, keeping the roots moist and out of direct sun until they go in the ground. Standard spacing is 3 plants per metre, or 5 per metre for a denser, faster screen.

Read our complete bare-root hedging buyer's guide for full instructions on when to plant, how to handle the plants on arrival, planting depth, spacing for different uses, and what to expect in the first season.