Laurus nobilis
Sweet Bay
Description
Sweet Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an evergreen tree with deep, dark leaves and a dense canopy. This tree can grow up to 40’ tall and 15’-30’ wide. It is known for its Bay leaves, which are used in many culinary dishes. It has clusters of small yellow flowers in the spring, followed by black or dark purple fruit. This tree can be a multi-trunk or standard tree that can be pruned for the first few years to encourage growth in a desired direction but should be maintained by a licensed arborist once it reaches maturity. These should be planted about five feet from hardscape and structures, such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. It can be irrigated for about 30 minutes twice a week, or 45 minutes once a week when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.
Sun
Full
Water
Low, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Moderate, Slow
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Messy
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.