Schip Laurel (Skip Laurel) — Shade-Tolerant Live Privacy Hedge

Schip Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus 'Schipkaensis') is the go-to privacy hedge for shady yards, narrow side yards, and wooded property lines where most evergreens fail. Unlike arborvitae and other common screening plants that thin out at the base without full sun, Schip Laurel stays dense and full from the ground up — even in partial or deep shade. Fast-growing, deer-resistant, and low-maintenance, it's one of the most reliable living fence plants we grow.

Why Gardeners Choose Schip Laurel

• Shade tolerant: Thrives in full sun, partial shade, and dappled woodland conditions — stays full and dense where other hedges go bare at the base.
• Fast growing: Adds up to 2 feet per year, closing privacy gaps quickly.
• Narrow, upright form: Natural columnar shape fits tight spaces without encroaching on lawns or hardscapes.
• Deer resistant: Significantly more resistant than arborvitae — a major advantage for suburban and rural properties.
• Year-round screening: Evergreen with large, glossy dark green leaves that hold their color through winter.
• Spring bonus: Fragrant white flower spikes in mid-spring, followed by small dark berries that attract songbirds.

Planting & Care

• Light: Full sun to deep shade.
• Soil: Adapts to most soil types; needs good drainage. Tolerates salt, pollution, and urban conditions.
• Spacing for a solid screen: Plant on 5-foot centers for an interlocking, gap-free privacy wall.
• Watering: Water deeply once a week April through October during the first season to establish roots. Very low water needs once established.
• Pruning: Optional light shearing after spring bloom to encourage a flush of fresh foliage and maintain clean lines.

Pro Tip

For a property line with mixed sun and shade, transition from Full Speed A Hedge® 'American Pillar' in the sunny sections to Schip Laurel where the shade kicks in — the two work seamlessly together for unbroken coverage.

Shipping Information

• Ships in 2.5-inch or Quart pots — fully rooted, branched, and ready to plant.
• Cannot ship to: California, Colorado, Washington, Arizona, or Oregon due to agricultural biosecurity regulations.