What is Portugal Laurel?

Portugal Laurel, scientifically known as prunus lusitanica , is a species of evergreen plants belonging to the Rosaceae family. Sometimes it is referred to as Portuguese Cherry Laurel, Portuguese cypress or tree Evergreen Bay. Plants of this species are considered to be from Portugal, Spain and Southwest France and several other regions. Most of these plants are seen along the mountain streams and prefer well -drained soils and a lot of sunlight. Portuguese laurel plants are often plagued by the fungus of parasitic honey. They can serve as a hedge and thrive in the woods. These plants can be trimmed to form formal shapes and is optimal to crop them in August. If growing naturally, they can develop into large and modified trees.A 1 to 2 inches (3 to 5 cm) in width. These leaves are arranged alternately and have a close similarity to the leaf leafs. Every glossy dark green leaf carries a dental projection and a short tip. If it will becrushed or burned, the content of the cyanide will be released.

The flowers of these ornamental plants are Hermaphrodite, with both female and male organs. Each flower contains small white petals and measures a diameter of 0.4 to 0.6 inches (10 to 15 mm). Insects help in pollination of Portuguese laurel flowers.

These evergreen plants produce small fruit, which are shaped as cherries and measure 0.3 to 0.5 inches (8 to 13 mm) in diameter. Initially, fruits are green or reddish colors, but as they ripen, they become dark purple. These fruits are abundant during the later part of summer or early autumn. Extreme bitterness of fruit is inedible.

The kind of Portugal Laurel belongs to the family, which is known that almost all members produce a poisonous cyanide. The toxic compound is concentrated in seeds and leaves and is easily detected by its bitter taste. Hydrogen cyanide does not have to be in maList of the amount of harmful and has been shown to improve digestion and stimulate breathing. In excess, this harmful substance may be fatal, causing the respiratory system failure, which can lead to death.