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Indian Laurel, Ficus nitida, close-up evergreen leaves
ficus nitida Size Chart
Indian Laurel
Indian Laurel
Indian Laurel
Indian Laurel
Indian Laurel, Ficus nitida, close-up evergreen leaves
ficus nitida Size Chart

Orders over $199 are delivered for free! All others have a flat rate delivery fee of $60.

Indian Laurel

Indian Laurel

Ficus microcarpa nitida

🌱 Fast-growing privacy screen (2-3 feet yearly)

🌱 California's favorite estate hedge

🌱 Drought-tolerant and low-maintenance

Regular price $44.95
Regular price $59.95 Sale price $44.95

24-hour money-back guarantee

Free delivery on orders over $199

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Why Indian Laurel?

The Indian Laurel (Ficus microcarpa nitida) has earned its reputation as California's favorite privacy hedge for good reason. This exceptional evergreen creates a dense, lush barrier that transforms your outdoor space into a private sanctuary. From the palatial estates of Palo Alto & Beverly Hills to the Palm Springs weekend homes, this versatile hedge adorns the most prestigious properties across the state.

Quick Planting Guide:

For instant privacy: Plant close enough that leaves almost touch for immediate dense coverage.

Center-to-center Spacing

Center-to-center spacing refers to the distance between the centers of two adjacent plants. 


Varieties & Uses

The Indian Laurel is incredibly versatile, with several popular applications:

  • Privacy Hedges: Create living walls that block unwanted views and reduce noise

  • Property Boundaries: Define your space with a beautiful natural border

  • Windbreaks: Protect your property from strong winds and erosion

  • Shade Trees: When allowed to grow as single specimens, they provide excellent shade

Why Choose Plants Express

  • Professional Delivery: Our own fleet delivers directly to your door
  • Customer Support: Knowledgeable staff to answer all your questions

  • California Grown: Plants acclimated to local conditions for better success

  • Guaranteed Quality: 24-hour money-back guarantee on all plants

PLANTING GUIDE

Location:

  • Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade. Indian Laurel Columns grow best in bright light but can tolerate some shade.
  • Ensure there is enough space for the plants to grow vertically, especially if planting them close together for a hedge.
  • These trees are well-suited for warmer climates and may not tolerate freezing temperatures.

Soil:

  • Prefers well-drained, fertile soil. It can adapt to a variety of soil types but performs best in loamy, slightly acidic to neutral soils.
  • If the soil is heavy or clay-based, consider amending it with organic matter to improve drainage.

Planting Steps:

  1. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
  2. Place the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
  3. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it down to eliminate air pockets.
  4. Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
  5. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch a few inches away from the trunk.

CARE GUIDE

Watering:

  • Water regularly during the first year to help the plant establish a strong root system. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
  • Once established, Indian Laurel Columns are drought-tolerant, but regular deep watering during hot, dry periods will keep the foliage lush and green.
  • Avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings, especially during the growing season.

Fertilizing:

  • Feed the plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.
  • A second feeding in mid-summer can promote vigorous foliage, especially if grown as a hedge.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to overly rapid, leggy growth.

Pruning:

  • Prune in late winter to early spring to shape the plants and control their height. Indian Laurel Columns respond well to trimming, making them an excellent choice for formal hedges or screens.
  • Regular pruning will encourage dense, compact growth and maintain the desired shape.
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to keep the plants healthy and looking their best.

Pest and Disease Management:

  • Generally hardy, but can occasionally be affected by scale, aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with insecticidal soap or horticultural oils can help control these pests.
  • Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues, such as leaf spot or powdery mildew.
  • Keep the area around the base of the plant free of fallen leaves and debris to reduce the risk of disease.

Mulching:

  • Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of each plant. This helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
  • Refresh the mulch as needed, and avoid piling it directly against the trunk to prevent rot.
Seasonality
Evergreen
Mature height
30-40 ft.
Mature Width
3-10 ft.
Sun exposure
Sun/Part Sun
Watering
Regular
Grows Well in Zones
9, 10, 11

Take a 30‑Second Tour of Our 25‑Gallon Indian Laurels

Size Matters: Bigger Hedges, Instant Privacy

When it comes to creating your dream landscape, starting with the right foundation makes all the difference. A robust hedge plant doesn't just look better on day one; it establishes faster, withstands stress better, and creates the privacy and beauty you desire in a fraction of the time.

FAQ'S

How tall will my Indian laurel get?

The Indian Laurel can grow to an impressive height of up to 40-60 feet. Most homeowners choose to maintain their hedges at heights of 10-20 feet.

How long before I have privacy?

For instant privacy, we recommend getting the 25-gallon size. These plants can grow up to 3 feet every year under ideal conditions, so they fill in fast.

How often should I water my Indian Laurel?

Water them 2-3 times a week for the first month after planting. After that, once a week in summer and every few weeks in winter. After 6 months, they barely need any water except during really hot, dry weather.

How do I maintain the ideal height and shape of my Indian Laurel?

To keep an Indian Laurel hedge looking crisp and formal, plan to prune it two or three times during the active growing season. Work with sharp, sanitized shears and taper the sides so the top is slightly narrower than the base, letting light reach the lower leaves. When the hedge gets too tall, reduce the top growth as needed—Indian Laurel readily bounces back from even substantial cuts.

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