Persea indica

RHS Plant Profile
Canary wood

Other common names

Canary wood, East Indian bay tree, venetica wood

Synonyms

Laurus indica

Trees Shrubs

An evergreen shrub reaching 3m, with glossy green leaves which emerge flushed red. At any time of year, old leaves can turn orange for a while before they drop. The flowers are small and pale green, ripening into blue-black berries

Size

Time to Maturity
No preference

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Lauraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Spreading branched, Bushy
Genus
Persea are evergreen shrubs or small trees with simple leaves and small greenish flowers, followed by pear-shaped, dark green fruits with edible flesh
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Atlantic Is

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in a sheltered spot in milder parts of the country. It needs moisture-retentive neutral to acid soil, with dappled shade.

Propagation

Propagate from semi-ripe cuttings or by seed. For more advice see propagate by seed (tree/shrub

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free