Bay Leaf, Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis)
The Classic Culinary Bay Tree—Fragrant, Evergreen, and Container-Friendly
The Bay Leaf Tree, also known as True Bay, Sweet Bay, or Bay Laurel, is the essential evergreen herb behind the rich, savory aroma of countless soups, stews, and sauces. Native to the Mediterranean and revered since ancient times, Bay Laurel is both ornamental and functional, grown for its glossy, aromatic leaves that are harvested year-round and used fresh or dried in the kitchen.
Bay Laurel is a slow-growing, drought-tolerant evergreen tree or shrub that can be shaped as a topiary, grown in a container, or planted in-ground in warm climates. It thrives in full sun, prefers well-draining soil, and responds beautifully to pruning, making it perfect for patios, herb gardens, and edible landscapes. It’s a classic addition to food forests and Mediterranean-style gardens alike.
| Scientific Name | Laurus nobilis |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Bay Leaf, Sweet Bay, True Bay, Bay Laurel |
| Family | Lauraceae (Laurel Family) |
| Origin | Mediterranean region |
| Plant Type | Evergreen Tree or Shrub |
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Food Forest Layer | Shrub / Low Tree Layer |
| Mature Size | 6–15 ft tall (easily pruned smaller) |
| Light |
Full Sun to Partial Shade In cooler climates, Bay Leaf can be acclimated to thrive in full sun, but in warmer climates they may benefit from part shade. |
| Water Needs | Low to Moderate; drought-tolerant once established |
| Harvest Season | Year-Round (pick mature leaves anytime)
Leaves can be harvested year round. Bay Leaf blooms throughout Spring and Summer. Foliage is best harvested in the morning when it is most fragrant. Prune annually for the best growth and production. Pruning is best done when the tree is not actively growing to maximize growth but to maximize flavor, harvest leaves in the mid summer. |
| Time to Harvest | 1–2 years from planting |
| Self-Fertile | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate |
| Zones |
USDA Zones 7–11 Can be grown as a long-lived houseplant or outdoor container plant in cold climates. Indoor plants can be moved outdoors in the spring and back inside in the fall when temperatures are consistently above freezing. If kept in a cool room (35-60˚F), the tree will stay dormant and does not need much light and very little water (just enough to keep the soil barely moist). In a warmer room provide regular watering like any houseplant and as much sun as possible. |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Cuttings, Seeds |
| Seasonal Characteristics | Evergreen; protect from hard frost |
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
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