Alright, let’s dive into the world of Prunus laurocerasus ‘Novita’, that tough and reliable evergreen shrub you might have seen gracing gardens and hedges all over the place. We’ll explore why it’s such a popular choice, especially when you’re thinking about creating a bit of privacy or adding some year-round greenery to your outdoor space.
The Lowdown on ‘Novita’
‘Novita’ is a cultivar of the common laurel, Prunus laurocerasus. Think of it as a specially bred version with some extra desirable traits. One of the big draws of ‘Novita’ is its resilience. It’s known for being pretty hardy and less susceptible to some of the common laurel diseases that can leave other varieties looking a bit sorry for themselves. This means less fuss for you and a healthier, happier plant in the long run.
Why People Choose ‘Novita’
There are plenty of reasons why ‘Novita’ ends up in so many gardens. For starters, it’s an evergreen, which means it keeps its lovely, glossy green leaves all year round. This is a huge plus if you’re looking for constant screening or just want some permanent structure in your garden, especially during those bare winter months.
Then there’s the growth rate. ‘Novita’ is considered to be reasonably fast-growing, which is great if you’re trying to establish a hedge or screen relatively quickly. It fills out nicely and creates a dense barrier, offering both visual appeal and a bit of sound dampening too.
And let’s not forget about the look of it. The leaves are a good size, a rich, deep green, and have that classic glossy sheen that looks really smart. In spring, you might even get some upright spikes of creamy white flowers, which, while not the main attraction, add a bit of extra interest and can be followed by red berries that eventually turn black (though these aren’t for eating).
‘Novita’ in Your Garden
So, how can you use ‘Novita’ in your own outdoor space? Well, hedging is probably the most common application. Its dense growth habit makes it ideal for creating privacy screens along boundaries or dividing different areas of your garden. Because it’s relatively low-maintenance once established, it’s a great option for those who want a good-looking hedge without constant pruning and fussing.
It can also work well as a standalone shrub, providing a strong focal point or a backdrop for other plants. Its robust nature means it can handle a bit of tough love and still look good. Plus, it’s fairly adaptable to different soil types and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade, which adds to its versatility.
Planting and Caring for ‘Novita’
Getting ‘Novita’ established is pretty straightforward. Like most shrubs, it’s best planted in well-drained soil. Dig a hole that’s twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball, pop the plant in, and backfill with soil, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Give it a good water to settle things in.
Once it’s in the ground, regular watering is important, especially during dry spells in the first year. After that, it becomes more self-sufficient. Pruning is generally only needed to maintain shape and size. You can give it a trim once or twice a year, typically in late spring or summer. Just be sure to use clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Potential Considerations
While ‘Novita’ is generally a tough cookie, there are a few things to keep in mind. Like other laurels, it can be susceptible to certain pests or diseases in less-than-ideal conditions, although ‘Novita’ is bred to be more resistant. Good air circulation and avoiding waterlogged soil can help prevent most issues.
Also, all parts of the Prunus laurocerasus plant, including ‘Novita’, contain compounds that can release cyanide if ingested, so it’s worth being mindful if you have very young children or pets that might be tempted to chew on the leaves or berries.
Why ‘Novita’ Stands Out
Compared to other hedging options, ‘Novita’ offers a good balance of fast growth, year-round interest, and relatively low maintenance. Its resilience to common laurel problems is a significant advantage, saving you time and effort in the long run. It creates a dense, attractive screen that serves both practical and aesthetic purposes in the garden.
In Conclusion
Prunus laurocerasus ‘Novita’ is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a reliable, fast-growing evergreen shrub. Whether you need a sturdy hedge for privacy, a structural element in your garden design, or simply want to enjoy year-round greenery, ‘Novita’ delivers. Its resilience, attractive appearance, and relatively easy care make it a firm favourite among gardeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly does Prunus laurocerasus ‘Novita’ grow?
‘Novita’ is considered to be a moderately fast grower, typically putting on around 30-60cm (1-2 feet) of growth per year in good conditions. This makes it a relatively quick way to establish a hedge or screen.
What are the ideal growing conditions for ‘Novita’?
‘Novita’ thrives in well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade. While it’s quite adaptable, avoiding very waterlogged or excessively dry conditions will help it flourish.
Does Prunus laurocerasus ‘Novita’ produce flowers and berries?
Yes, in spring, ‘Novita’ can produce upright spikes of small, creamy-white flowers. These are often followed by small, red berries that mature to black. It’s important to note that these berries are not edible and all parts of the plant can be harmful if ingested.
How often should I prune my ‘Novita’ hedge?
Generally, pruning once or twice a year is sufficient to maintain the shape and size of a ‘Novita’ hedge. The best times to prune are typically in late spring or summer after the main flush of new growth.
Is ‘Novita’ resistant to common laurel diseases?
Yes, one of the key advantages of ‘Novita’ is its improved resistance to some of the common diseases that can affect other varieties of Prunus laurocerasus, such as shot hole disease and leaf drop. However, good growing conditions and proper care are still important for maintaining its health.