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Laurus nobilis

Bay Tree

Award Winner Loved by Pollinators Low Maintenance Fragrant Scent Hardiness H4

Aromatic evergreen leaves make Laurus nobilis both an attractive structural shrub and a useful culinary herb. Bay can be clipped into hedges or topiary, but young and container-grown plants benefit from shelter during severe Irish frost and from soil that drains freely.
SKU: LAUR-161-Y
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Plant Details

Flowering Months

January, not a flowering month
February, not a flowering month
March, flowering month
April, flowering month
May, flowering month
June, flowering month
July, not a flowering month
August, not a flowering month
September, not a flowering month
October, not a flowering month
November, not a flowering month
December, not a flowering month

Size

Max Height
8.0 m — 12.0 m
Max Spread
8.0 m +
Growth Habit
Densely branched plant with compact, leafy, rounded overall shape.

Planting Position

Sunlight Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.
Full Sun Part Shade
Aspect Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.
North South East West
Exposure Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.
Exposed / Sheltered
Hardiness Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.
Hardiness H4 (−10 to −5 °C) Hardy in most of Ireland

Ideal Soil Conditions

Soil Type Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.
Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Soil Moisture Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.
Free draining
Soil pH Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.
Acid Alkaline Neutral

Plant Uses & Merits

Uses
  • Patios / Courtyards
  • Coastal Areas
  • Containers
  • Hedging / Screening
Merits
  • Fragrant
  • Low Maintenance
  • RHS | Award Of Garden Merit
  • Loved By Pollinators

Laurus nobilis Description

Laurus nobilis, bay laurel, is an evergreen shrub or small tree with leathery, aromatic dark green leaves widely used to flavour soups, stews and sauces. Small yellow-green spring flowers may be followed by dark berries on female plants where suitable pollination occurs. Unpruned specimens can eventually reach 5 to 8 metres or more, but bay tolerates clipping well and is commonly maintained as a hedge, pyramid, standard or container specimen. Grow in full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Established plants are reasonably hardy in mild Irish gardens, but severe frost and cold drying winds can damage foliage and young stems. Container plants are more vulnerable because their roots freeze more readily. Prune and shape in late spring or summer.

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