Tag: Prunus laurocerasus

All parts of the cherry laurel plant, *Prunus laurocerasus*, contain toxic compounds called cyanogenic glycosides that release deadly hydrogen cyanide when ingested. Given this potent danger, can we eat cherry laurel? The simple and unambiguous answer is a resounding no.

According to sources like the Plantura Magazin, as few as ten chewed cherry laurel berries can be fatal to a child, highlighting the immense danger of misidentification. This guide explores the different tastes of laurel berries while emphasizing critical safety information.

According to plant experts, nearly all parts of the English laurel, also known as cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), contain poisonous compounds. The answer to "is English laurel edible?" is a definitive no, and ingesting any part of this common evergreen shrub can lead to serious health complications.

Despite its deceiving name, nearly all parts of the cherry laurel plant ($Prunus laurocerasus$) are toxic, with the seeds containing particularly high concentrations of cyanogenic glycosides. This chemical compound, when metabolized, releases hydrogen cyanide, a deadly poison. Therefore, it is extremely dangerous to eat the fruit from a cherry laurel unless prepared correctly, which requires expert knowledge.