Volcano Cherry Laurel | Evergreen Privacy Hedge

The Compact, Upright Cherry Laurel Built for Tight Privacy Hedges

Volcano Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Volcano') is a superior selection of cherry laurel bred specifically for a narrow, upright growth habit that makes it ideal for privacy hedging in spaces where a wide-spreading shrub won’t work. Where standard cherry laurels spread as wide as they grow tall, Volcano maintains a naturally columnar form — growing tall and dense without consuming excessive horizontal space. Its large, glossy dark-green leaves are among the most attractive of any evergreen hedging shrub, and in spring it produces fragrant clusters of small white flowers that add seasonal interest to its year-round structure. It is one of the fastest-growing evergreen hedging shrubs available, capable of providing meaningful privacy screening within 1–2 seasons of planting.

Why Volcano Is the Premier Privacy Hedge

• Compact, upright columnar habit — the defining trait; grows tall and dense without excessive width; ideal for narrow spaces, property lines, and tight hedging situations where standard cherry laurels are too wide
• Fast-growing privacy screen — one of the fastest-growing evergreen hedging shrubs available; provides meaningful privacy within 1–2 seasons
• Large, glossy evergreen foliage — bold, lustrous dark-green leaves year-round; one of the most attractive evergreen hedging shrubs available
• Fragrant white spring blooms — clusters of small white flowers in spring add seasonal fragrance and ornamental interest
• Deer-resistant — cherry laurel is generally avoided by deer; a reliable choice in landscapes with deer pressure
• Drought-tolerant once established — highly adaptable and resilient once roots are established; low ongoing maintenance
• Shade-tolerant — one of the few fast-growing evergreen hedging shrubs that performs well in partial to full shade
• Container-friendly — grows well in large containers for patio screening and entryway framing

Hardiness & Growing Zones

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6–9
• Zone 6: Hardy in-ground; foliage may bronze slightly in severe winters but recovers in spring; plant in a sheltered location with protection from harsh desiccating winds, which can cause winter leaf burn
• Zones 7–8: Ideal conditions; vigorous growth with dense, lush foliage year-round
• Zone 9: Thrives in heat; provide consistent moisture during summer; afternoon shade in the hottest climates reduces heat stress
• Sunlight: Full sun to full shade (one of the most shade-tolerant fast-growing hedging shrubs available; performs well in challenging low-light situations)
• Soil: Adaptable to most well-drained soils; tolerates clay, loam, and sandy conditions; avoid waterlogged sites, which can cause root rot
• Mature size: 10–15 ft tall × 4–6 ft wide; significantly narrower than standard cherry laurel varieties
• Hedge spacing: Plant 3–4 ft apart for a dense privacy screen; 4–5 ft apart for a more open informal hedge

Planting & Care Tips

Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to full shade. Water deeply and consistently during the first growing season to establish a strong root system — consistent moisture in year one is the key to fast establishment and rapid privacy screening. Once established, Volcano is quite drought-tolerant. Fertilize once in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Prune once or twice per year (late spring after blooming and again in late summer) to maintain the desired height and density. Avoid heavy pruning in fall, which can stimulate tender growth vulnerable to winter damage in zone 6.

Available Sizes

• 2 Gallon — most economical; ideal for planting in quantity along a fence or property line
• 3 Gallon — well-rooted; good balance of value and establishment speed
• 6 Gallon — larger specimen; faster to privacy screening height
• 7 Gallon — most established; maximum head start; fastest to full privacy screening