Bay Laurel

 In
Bay Laurel

Laurus nobilis
Laurus nobilis
Sweet Bay
Mediterranean
10

20 feet
15

25 feet
  • Full Shade
  • Full Sun
  • Part Sun/Shade
  • Low

About This Plant

Sun to part shade; a semi-evergreen shrub or small specimen tree. In the right soils, bay laurel grows quite large and sturdy; with appropriate training it can make a hedge. It appreciates some protection from late afternoon sun in summertime.

This is the Mediterranean bay laurel of antiquity, a classical symbol of high status. Branches were interwoven to form the laurel wreaths awarded to winners at ancient games (and more recently at the Athens Olympic Games).

When crushed, the leaves impart a pungent flavor to soups, teas and other dishes.

Maintenance

Grows slowly. Shape as needed; bay can be sheared as a hedge or trained upward to a tree shape. Prune in summer and late summer to control the size and shape. Remove basal suckers.

In winter temperatures under 10F severe damage can be expected.

Features

Plant Type:
Large Shrub
Size:
10-20' H, 15-25' W
Sunlight Requirements:
Full Shade, Full Sun, Part Sun/Shade
Soil Types:
Clay, Sandy
Wildlife:
Pollinators
Flower Color:
White
Bloom Time:
May, June
Freeze Hardy:
Yes
Invasive:
No
Caution:
None
Coupon Eligible:
No

This plant goes well with

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