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Laurus nobilis

Sweet Bay

Plant photo of: Laurus nobilis
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer: Norman's Nursery/Mullany

 

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.

 

Plant Type

Tree

Height Range

25-40', 40-60'

Flower Color

Yellow

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Dark Green

Bark Color

Grey

Fruit Color

Black, Purple

Fruit Season

Fall

Leaf Season

Evergreen

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

Design Styles

English Cottage, Formal, Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish

Accenting Features

Fragrance, Multi-trunk Tree, Specimen, Standard

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Lawn, Park, Parking Lot, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Topiary, Wind Break, Shade Tree, Fire Resistant

Attracts Wildlife

Birds

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.