Western Cherry Laurel: A Rare Caribbean Native Worth Discovering
Meet the western cherry laurel (Prunus occidentalis), a fascinating native tree that calls Puerto Rico home. While you might not find this beauty at your local garden center, this lesser-known member of the cherry family has some intriguing qualities that make it worth learning about—especially if you’re gardening in tropical or subtropical climates.
What is Western Cherry Laurel?
Western cherry laurel is a perennial tree native exclusively to Puerto Rico. As a member of the Prunus genus (which includes cherries, plums, and peaches), it shares family traits with some of our most beloved fruiting trees. This species can grow as a single-trunked tree reaching heights of 13-16 feet or more, though environmental conditions may sometimes result in a shorter, multi-stemmed growth form.
Botanically speaking, it’s also known by the synonym Laurocerasus occidentalis, but Prunus occidentalis is the accepted scientific name you’ll want to remember.
Where Does It Grow Naturally?
This tree is found naturally only in Puerto Rico, making it a true Caribbean endemic. Its limited geographic distribution means it’s adapted specifically to the warm, humid conditions of this tropical island.
Growing Conditions and Hardiness
Given its Puerto Rican origins, western cherry laurel thrives in warm, tropical to subtropical conditions. If you’re dreaming of growing this tree, you’ll likely need to be in USDA hardiness zones 10-11 to provide the consistently warm temperatures it requires.
The species has a facultative wetland status in the Caribbean region, meaning it’s quite adaptable—it can handle both wetland and non-wetland conditions. This flexibility suggests it might be more tolerant of varying moisture levels than some tropical species.
Why Consider Western Cherry Laurel?
Here are some reasons you might want to add this unique tree to your tropical landscape:
- It’s a conversation starter—few people will have seen or heard of this rare native
- As a Prunus species, it likely produces attractive flowers and small fruits
- Its adaptability to different moisture conditions makes it potentially easier to establish
- You’ll be supporting biodiversity by growing a native Caribbean species
- It may provide habitat and food for local wildlife
The Reality Check
Before you get too excited, here’s the honest truth: western cherry laurel is not commonly cultivated, and finding plants or seeds may be challenging. Its limited native range means there’s also limited information available about optimal growing conditions, care requirements, and long-term garden performance.
If you’re not gardening in Puerto Rico or a similar tropical climate, this probably isn’t the tree for you. Even in suitable climates, you’ll likely need to source plants through specialty native plant societies or botanical institutions.
Planting and Care Tips
Given the limited cultivation information available, here are some general guidelines based on its native habitat and family characteristics:
- Provide warm, frost-free conditions year-round
- Ensure good drainage while maintaining adequate moisture
- Plant in a location with morning sun and some afternoon protection in very hot climates
- Allow plenty of space for the tree to reach its mature size
- Be patient—establishment may take time with rare native species
Is This Tree Right for Your Garden?
Western cherry laurel is best suited for collectors of rare plants, botanical gardens, or gardeners in Puerto Rico looking to support native biodiversity. If you’re in a tropical climate but western cherry laurel isn’t available, consider other native Prunus species or similar native trees that provide comparable benefits and are more readily available.
While this tree may not be practical for most gardeners, it serves as a reminder of the incredible plant diversity found in specific regions around the world. Sometimes the most interesting plants are the ones that stay close to home!
