Laurel cherry, also known as Prunus laurocerasus, is a popular evergreen shrub that is native to southeastern Europe and southwestern Asia. It is also commonly referred to by its synonyms, including cherry laurel, common laurel, English laurel, and cherry bay. Despite its name, the laurel cherry is not related to the cherry tree, but rather to the peach and apricot trees. It is a favored plant for hedging and landscaping due to its lush foliage and ability to grow densely. Its leaves give off a distinctive cherry-like aroma when crushed, making it a popular choice for cooking and flavoring purposes.