Laurustinus

Biology

This is a perennial shrub with a rounded crown and that rarely reaches more than six metres high. The laurustinus occurs in riparian area or soils with some moisture, and at low altitudes, but can withstand temperatures of minus 10ºC. It has a fast growth while it is young, which slows with age. It is hermaphrodite and blooms during the winter, but fruits only in late summer: a small metallic-blue drupe.

Curiosities

The laurustinus is one of the most cultivated ornamental shrubs in Portugal. In the past, its fruits were used as laxative.