Culinary Herb, Shrub

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-157-Y

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Flowering Months
Jan J
Feb F
Mar M
Apr A
May M
Jun J
Jul J
Aug A
Sep S
Oct O
Nov N
Dec D
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.
(−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.

Planting Guide for Laurus nobilis

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Care guide for Laurus nobilis

Items must be returned within 30 days after receiving your order. Items must be returned in the same condition in which they were received, be unworn/unused, have any tags still attached, and include all the original packaging.

Uses for Laurus nobilis & Garden Styles it suits

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