Prunus laurocerasus ‘Mariblon Genolia’, commonly known as Skinny Schip Laurel, is a narrow, upright selection of Cherry Laurel valued for its space-saving columnar form and evergreen foliage. Growing 10 to 12 feet tall but only 2 to 3 feet wide, it’s ideal for tight hedging, privacy screens, or foundation plantings in urban and suburban landscapes. Glossy green leaves remain attractive year-round, and upright white flower spikes bloom in spring. While beautiful and adaptable, this cultivar is not native to the U.S. and provides minimal support for native wildlife.

Why choose Skinny Schip Laurel:

• Narrow footprint: Perfect for hedging in tight spaces or along property lines

• Evergreen appeal: Glossy, dark green leaves offer year-round screening

• Shade-tolerant: Grows well in part to full shade, even in challenging soils

Cultivating tips:

• Sun exposure: Best in part sun to part shade

• Soil needs: Adapts to a wide range of soils, including clay and poor drainage

• Maintenance: Prune annually to maintain size and density

Designs for your garden:

• Narrow screens: Excellent for side yards, fences, or along patios

• Foundation borders: Adds vertical interest without taking up much space

• Shade gardens: One of the few columnar evergreens that tolerates low light

Ecological considerations:

• Non-native species: Offers limited ecological value to birds, insects, and pollinators

• No food or host plant value: Provides no support for native wildlife

• Use with caution: Best used alongside native shrubs to balance function with biodiversity

Looking for native alternatives?

Ilex glabra ‘Shamrock’ – Shamrock Inkberry: A compact, columnar native evergreen that thrives in sun to shade and provides habitat value.
Ilex glabra ‘Compacta’ – Compact Inkberry: Dense, upright form with glossy evergreen foliage for hedging and borders.
Ilex opaca – American Holly: A tall native evergreen with strong vertical form, glossy leaves, and red berries that support birds and pollinators.