Laurus nobilis – The Classic Bay Laurel: A Fragrant Evergreen Beauty
Laurus nobilis, commonly known as Bay Laurel, is an elegant evergreen shrub that brings both beauty and practicality to the garden year-round. With its glossy, aromatic leaves and rich, dark green foliage, it is a timeless addition to any garden. Whether grown as a shrub or pruned into a small tree, the Bay Laurel is perfect for adding structure, fragrance, and an air of Mediterranean charm to your landscape.
This versatile plant thrives in a range of conditions, from garden borders to pots and containers, making it a popular choice for herb gardens and decorative plantings. The leaves are not only ornamental but also useful in cooking, offering a subtle, aromatic flavour to many dishes.
Why Grow Laurus nobilis?
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Fragrant Foliage – The leaves are known for their aromatic scent, which can be used fresh or dried in culinary dishes.
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Evergreen Beauty – Its lush, dark green foliage provides year-round interest and structure to gardens.
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Low-Maintenance – Bay Laurel is hardy and easy to care for, making it perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.
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Versatile Growth – Can be grown as a compact shrub or pruned into a small tree, offering a variety of uses in the landscape.
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Attractive to Wildlife – While not a major nectar source, its dense foliage offers shelter to birds and small creatures.
Planting & Care Guide
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Position – Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is ideal for sheltered spots and can be grown in pots or borders.
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Soil – Thrives in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. Bay Laurel prefers a slightly alkaline soil but adapts well to most conditions.
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Watering – Water regularly when newly planted to establish roots. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods.
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Maintenance:
- Prune in late spring to shape and encourage a bushy form.
- Regularly remove any dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant healthy.
- Bay Laurel is naturally slow-growing, so it rarely requires heavy pruning, and it retains its shape well.
Perfect Plant Combinations Bay Laurel pairs wonderfully with other Mediterranean plants such as Rosemary, Thyme, and Lavender, all of which thrive in similar conditions. It also works well in herb gardens, where its leaves can be easily harvested for cooking. Additionally, it can be used as a backdrop in flower borders, creating a striking contrast with colourful blooms such as Geraniums, Salvia, and Marigolds.
For a more formal look, plant Bay Laurel as a topiary or hedge, adding structure and elegance to any garden design.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
