Bay Laurel

(Laurus nobilis)

Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Laurus nobilis, commonly known as bay laurel or sweet bay, is an aromatic evergreen tree or large shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It thrives in scrub and open woodlands, often found in coastal areas and on mountain slopes where the climate is mild. Bay laurel typically grows to a height of 10-30 feet (3-9 meters) with a similar spread, and it features smooth, glossy, dark green leaves that are highly valued for their culinary use. The plant produces small yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by black or purple berries that are generally not considered ornamental.

Bay laurel is cultivated for its aromatic leaves, which are used as the culinary herb bay leaf. It is also popular in ornamental gardens for its formal appearance and is often pruned into topiary shapes or used in hedges. Bay laurel prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of conditions from full sun to part shade. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during prolonged dry periods. In cultivation, it is important to provide protection from strong winds and to avoid waterlogged soils to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
  • Height: 10-30 feet
  • Width: 5-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Yellow, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Scrub and open woodlands in the Mediterranean region

Other Names

Common Names: Bay Tree, Bay Laurel, Bay-Leaf Laurel, True Laurel, Grecian Laurel, Laurel, Lorbeerbaum, Lorbeerstrauch, Laurier, Loureiro

Scientific Names: , Laurus nobilis, Laurus angusta, Laurus salicifolia, Laurus nobilis var. rotundifolia, Laurus nobilis f. latifolia, Laurus nobilis f. lanceolata, Laurus nobilis var. latifolia, Laurus tenuifolia, Laurus undulata

GBIF Accepted Name: Laurus nobilis L.