Bay Laurel

What is Bay Laurel?
Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a fragrant evergreen shrub or small tree known for its glossy, leathery leaves. These leaves are commonly used as a culinary herb—bay leaves—in soups, stews, and sauces.

Where is it native to?
Bay Laurel is native to the Mediterranean region, including southern Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa.

What growing zones does it grow in?
Bay Laurel thrives in USDA Zones 8–10. In cooler climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during winter.

Why do people grow Bay Laurel?

Is it medicinal or simply ornamental or both?
Bay Laurel is both ornamental and medicinal. Its lush foliage makes it a beautiful hedge or container plant, while its leaves have culinary and traditional medicinal uses.

What does it do? What do people use it for?
People use Bay Laurel primarily for its aromatic leaves in cooking. Historically, it has also been used for its antiseptic and digestive properties. Symbolically, it’s known as a plant of victory and honor—think laurel wreaths.

How to take care or grow this Bay Laurel?

Can it grow indoors or is it better outdoors?
Bay Laurel can grow both indoors and outdoors. Outdoors, it prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Indoors, it needs bright light and good air circulation. It’s ideal for container gardening.

How can this plant be propagated?
Bay Laurel is typically propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. It can also be grown from seeds, though germination is slow. Layering is another effective method.