| Common Name(s) |
Cherry Laurel |
 |
| Latin Name |
Prunus Laurocerasus |
| Description |
An evergreen shrub which can grow to about 6
metres (20ft) high, with greyish brown bark with short stemmed glossy oval
bright green leaves, the spikes of creamy white flowers develop into
bunches of purplish black berries. |
| Hazards |
The berries are attractive to children,
although the flesh is relatively harmless the seeds are very poisonous if
chewed. |
| Effects |
Rapid breathing, vomiting, headache and
convulsions which may develop within a few hours. The mistake of using
Laurel leaves instead of Bay leaves when cooking can also lead to
poisoning. |
| Flowering Period |
Early Summer flowers. Berries in Autumn. |
| Location |
Shrubberies and gardens (often used as
hedging). |