Description

Sweet Bay Laurel is the legendary culinary and historical tree, source of the bay leaves used in kitchens worldwide. This versatile evergreen can be grown as a large shrub, small tree, or formal topiary. Its dense, aromatic foliage is both ornamental and practical, making it a must-have for herb gardens and Mediterranean-style landscapes in the Bay Area.

• The source of true culinary bay leaves. Its thick, glossy, dark green leaves are harvested and dried for use in soups, stews, and sauces.

• Can be easily pruned into hedges, topiaries, or maintained as a dense, pyramidal small tree. It is a classic choice for container gardening on patios.

• Drought tolerant once established and thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is deer resistant and adapts well to our Mediterranean climate.

• Carries immense cultural significance as the tree used to weave victors’ crowns in ancient Greece.

• Note: Female plants produce small, inedible purple berries. For a fruitless option, choose a male cultivar like ‘Saratoga’.