Cocculus laurifolius

Cocculus laurifolius, the laurel-leaved cocculus, is an unknown cousin of the Cocculus indicus, widely used in homoeopathy. It is a large bush of Asian origin that was often planted in the 19th century in parks and properties on the French Riviera, as seen by the very old specimens that can still be found there. Undoubtedly, it was chosen for the uniqueness of its almost climbing habit, the beauty of its large evergreen leaves, and its robustness. Not very hardy, this large and beautiful plant with exotic charm, which has become rare, is suitable for gardens with mild climates, where it will grow without care once established. Gardeners in colder regions can grow it in a pot to overwinter in an orangery.

The Cocculus laurifolius (synonyms Menispermum laurifolium, Cinnamomum esquirolii) belongs to the botanical family Menispermaceae and comes from the foothills of the Himalayas: China, Taiwan, and Japan. It can be found growing among shrubs and in clear forests. It reaches a height of 3 m and an average width of 2.50 m, showing an erect and sparsely branched habit, almost climbing, with a tendency for the few secondary branches to droop. Its growth is rather fast, depending on the growing conditions. It is a dioecious species, meaning that there are male plants with flowers lacking pistils, and female plants with flowers lacking stamens. Fruit production on female plants will only occur in the presence of a male plant. The foliage remains throughout the year.

It is a rhizomatous bush, capable of producing a few shoots from its stump if pruned very low. The bark of young branches is green, while the bark of older, often twisted branches becomes grey and smooth over time. The leathery leaves of Cocculus laurifolius are its main asset: elliptical to ovate-elliptical in shape, they measure 4 to 15 cm (1.6 to 5.9 in) long and 1.5 to 5 cm (0.6 to 2 in) wide. They are a beautiful shiny green and have 3 prominent veins. Arranged spirally quite densely around the branches, they give the bush a luxuriant appearance. The flowering is discreet, in summer, in the form of small yellow-green flowers with 6 petals, gathered in small clusters in the axils of the leaves.

The Cocculus laurifolius deserves to be rediscovered and planted in regions spared by severe frosts. With an exotic appearance without being flashy, this easy-to-grow evergreen bush will make a big impact when planted alone in a small garden. It will add a touch of fantasy to a large hedge and dress up a dull wall, even in a fairly shady location. It pairs well with Clematis armandii or climbing hydrangeas (Hydrangea seemanii, Hydrangea petiolaris, Pileostegia viburnoides). Also, consider, in an exotic-style bed, the Devil's Walking Stick or the Golden Shadow Paper Mulberry, unique and trouble-free shrubs.