Laurus nobilis – Classic Bay Tree with Timeless Elegance

The Laurus nobilis, also known as the Bay Tree or Sweet Bay, is a highly versatile evergreen shrub or small tree, cherished for both its ornamental beauty and culinary value. With glossy, aromatic leaves that can be picked fresh for cooking, it brings both style and practicality to the garden. Its naturally neat, bushy form makes it an ideal choice for topiary, where it can be clipped into shapes such as balls, cones, or standards.

Whether grown in the ground or in containers, bay trees provide year-round structure and elegance. They are particularly striking when used in pairs to frame a doorway or pathway, offering an instant Mediterranean charm. Easy to care for, long-lived, and multi-purpose, the Laurus nobilis is a true classic in both gardens and kitchens.

General Information

Native to the Mediterranean, the bay tree has been cultivated for centuries as both a decorative plant and a culinary herb.

• Habit: Evergreen shrub or small tree with a naturally dense, bushy form.

• Height & spread: Typically grows 2–4m tall in gardens, though can reach 7m in ideal conditions; spreads 2–3m.

• Foliage: Glossy, dark green, aromatic leaves used in cooking (soups, stews, casseroles).

• Flowers: Clusters of small, pale yellow flowers appear in spring.

• Berries: Glossy black berries may follow on female plants.

• Position: Prefers full sun or light partial shade; thrives best in a sheltered spot.

• Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil; adapts well to containers with quality compost.

• Hardiness: Hardy in mild UK areas but may need winter protection in exposed or colder regions.

• Uses: Ornamental topiary, container planting, hedges, and culinary herb gardens.

With its combination of ornamental form and practical uses, bay is one of the most versatile plants you can grow.

Care Guide

Laurus nobilis is relatively easy to care for and thrives with a little seasonal attention.

Planting

• When to plant: Best in spring or autumn.

• Depth & spacing: Plant at the same depth as in the pot; space 1–2m apart if growing as a hedge.

• Containers: Perfect in large pots – use loam-based compost mixed with grit for drainage.

• Positioning: Place in a sheltered, sunny location; avoid strong, cold winds.

Watering & Feeding

• Water regularly during the first year after planting to establish roots.

• In containers, check moisture frequently – do not allow compost to dry out completely.

• Feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring and summer; slow-release feeds are particularly effective.

Pruning & Maintenance

• Trim lightly in summer to maintain shape, especially for topiary.

• Avoid cutting back into old wood, as bay trees are slow to regrow from bare stems.

• Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems.

• Repot container-grown plants every 3–4 years or refresh the top layer of compost annually.

Protection

• Protect roots and crowns in colder areas with fleece or by moving pots to a sheltered location in winter.

• Mulch around base in borders to conserve soil warmth and moisture.

• Resistant to most pests, though vine weevils and scale insects may occasionally be a problem.

Why Choose Laurus nobilis?

The bay tree offers gardeners elegance, practicality, and year-round interest.

• Ornamental value: Evergreen foliage and neat form provide structure all year.

• Culinary use: Fresh or dried leaves add flavour to countless dishes.

• Versatile planting: Ideal for topiary, containers, hedges, or as a feature plant.

• Mediterranean charm: Adds a touch of classic style to gardens and patios.

• Low-maintenance: Easy to grow and long-lived with basic care.

The Laurus nobilis is a timeless plant that blends beauty and utility. Whether clipped into a neat ball, grown as a tall standard, or planted in borders for its glossy foliage, it brings enduring charm to gardens while serving as a reliable source of fresh, aromatic leaves for the kitchen

• Size
  P35/45 head

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

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Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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