Prunus lusitanica ‘Brenelia’ – Standards (Portuguese Laurel)

Real life William Morris wallpaper: ‘Brenelia’ is a new variety of Prunus lusitanica with slightly serrated, wavy-edged leaves that are deep green on top and dusty jade below with a deep, crisp fold down the middle. Full of texture and light. In spring all the new stems glow with the pinky- tawnyness of a turtle doves breast, and the colour combination is glorious to behold. Dew-dropped in rain? Breathtaking. 

Enough of this: it’s a Prunus so you know it’s low-maintenance and an easy to establish and care for evergreen. No nonsense. These standard specimens are very regal and look rather posh clipped as they are into handsome lollipop shapes. Pair these with generous planters and elevate your entrance. Or give them a court of similarly clipped shrubs to reign over for height and evergreen interest that’s playful but sophisticated. Trim it once or twice a year to maintain the shape and plant it anywhere: this is one of those rather rare shade-tolerant architectural trees that won’t sulk against a north-facing wall or slightly shadowy city garden. Happy in all soils but not waterlogged: no one likes soggy feet. Pots are a definite benefit if you’re swampy or, indeed, entirely paved.