Growing Guide: Bay Leaf
| 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 |
