Napoleon Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Gajo’) Napoleon Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus ‘Gajo’) is a compact, upright evergreen shrub valued for its neat form, polished foliage, and excellent cold tolerance. A refined European selection, this variety brings year-round structure and dependable performance to hedges, borders, and foundation plantings. It thrives in both sun and shade, maintaining a formal, lush appearance in any setting. Distinctive Features Napoleon stands out for its upright, oval growth habit and dark green, glossy leaves that create a clean, elegant texture. Unlike more spreading cherry laurels, it maintains a narrow, dense profile with minimal pruning. Mature plants typically reach 4 to 6 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. In spring, clusters of fragrant white flower spikes appear, attracting pollinators, followed by small black fruit later in the season. Growing Conditions Sun Exposure: Full sun to full shade. Soil Type: Moist, well-drained soil. Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral. Water Needs: Moderate; water consistently during establishment. USDA Hardiness Zones: 6 to 8. Ideal Uses Compact Hedges: Perfect for formal screening and structured borders. Foundation Plantings: Adds evergreen texture and polish near entrances or patios. Mixed Borders: Serves as a lush backdrop for perennials and flowering shrubs. Urban Gardens: Performs well in courtyards or small landscapes. Focal Point: A clean, upright evergreen ideal for refined designs. Low Maintenance Care Napoleon Cherry Laurel is easy to maintain, requiring minimal care to retain its compact shape and rich color throughout the year. Pruning: Trim lightly in early spring to maintain desired size and form. Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to protect roots and preserve soil moisture. Fertilizing: Feed in spring with a balanced evergreen shrub fertilizer. Watering: Provide supplemental water during dry periods to support growth. Resistance: Deer resistant and tolerant of pollution and urban conditions. Why Choose Napoleon Cherry Laurel? This compact evergreen combines elegance, resilience, and low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for small-scale or formal plantings. Upright Growth: Maintains a tidy, space-efficient profile. Evergreen Beauty: Glossy foliage offers year-round color and structure. Versatile Performance: Thrives in full sun or deep shade. Cold Hardy: More tolerant of colder climates than most cherry laurels. Focal Point: Brings refined form and lasting greenery to modern landscapes. Prunus laurocerasus ‘Gajo’ combines structure, adaptability, and evergreen beauty, making it a smart choice for gardens that value form, function, and simplicity.