Cherry laurel, also called English laurel, is an evergreen shrub closely related to cherry trees. It is not a true laurel, although it resembles them. The cherry laurel is native to the Mediterranean region. Its small, shiny leaves have finely toothed edges. The fragrant white flowers grow in clusters. The fruits are dark purple and have a bitter taste. The leaves and the round stones of the fruit are poisonous. The Carolina cherry laurel and the western cherry laurel are closely related to the cherry laurel.
