Carolina Laurelcherry Prunus caroliniana is a small (15′ X 10′) evergreen tree with glossy-green leaves that occurs naturally across most of Louisiana in low woods, maritime forests, and fields. This species blooms in February, one of the first trees to bloom in the new year. Its flowers attract native bees and other insect pollinators. The black, fleshy fruit is eaten by birds and small mammals.
In residential landscapes, Carolina Laurelcherry thrives in full sun to part shade and moist, loamy, well-drained soils. Carolina Laurelcherry makes a fine, evergreen ornamental specimen. Because it produces root suckers, it also is a good choice for a natural hedge or visual screen.