We have a magnificent tree in our backyard nestled next to the Lilly Pilly and easily as tall, if not taller. For a long time we hadn’t really realised there was a different tree there. It wasn’t until Graham and I began working in that part of the garden that we noted some differences. This particular tree, if it has a branch hanging down to the ground will grow new roots and anchor the branch to the ground. Rather strange habit that one. It has beautiful columns of small white flowers in the spring that the bees and butterflies love. It comes alive at that time and is quite picturesque.
We began to research to find out what the tree was. Our neighbour didn’t know, although she’s very knowledgeable about plants and trees in this area and suspected it came from North America. She said the tree was here when she shifted in over 40 years ago. While it grows over her side of the fence it is very much a tree that is part of our garden and provides lovely shade, as well as protection for the birdlife that likes to rest in the tree. Eventually we learnt that it is a Prunus Laurocerasus or Cherry Laurel. Apparently native to Southwestern Asia and Southeastern Europe. It’s an evergreen species of cherry and dark in colour. It must fruit around the same time as the Lilly Pilly which will explain why we’d not really noticed the difference before.
Close up of the flowers
The tree in its splendour.
My husband has cut back the branches that were sprouting roots and we have now begun developing a garden, which will happily live in the shadow and shade of this beautiful tree.