Bay Laurel
Laurus nobilis
Lauraceae · Tree
Bay laurel is an evergreen tree or large shrub with glossy, aromatic leaves that are a staple in slow-cooked dishes for their distinctive herbal, slightly bitter flavor. It can be grown in containers and pruned into various shapes, adding formal elegance.
- · Provide consistent moisture, especially when young.
- · Protect from hard freezes in colder zones, moving potted plants indoors.
- · Prune to maintain desired size and shape, especially for container growth.
At a glance
- Growing zones: 8-10
- Sun: Full sun to partial shade
- Water: Moderate
- Maintenance: Low-moderate
- Type: Tree
- Mature size: 10-20 ft tall · 5-15 ft wide
- Bloom season: Spring · Yellowish-green
- Pollinator friendly: Not particularly
- Container suitable: Yes
- Cold tolerance: Hardy to 15F
- Heat tolerance: Excellent
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile loam
- Growth rate: Slow
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