Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a hardy evergreen tree prized for its dense, glossy foliage and year-round ornamental presence. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor growth, this Mediterranean shrub can be shaped as a small tree, hedge, container plant, or patio specimen. Slow growing and long-lived, Bay Laurel’s lush foliage and small yellow spring flowers attract garden interest and provide structure in landscape planting.
Features
- Evergreen shrub or small tree with glossy foliage.
- Non-GMO Laurus nobilis seed variety.
- Slow-growing, long-lived ornamental plant.
- Suitable for containers, hedges, and patio landscaping.
- Naturally dense growth habit; responds well to pruning.
- Adaptable to indoor/outdoor growing in suitable climates.
Specifications
- Common Name: Bay Laurel
- Scientific Name: Laurus nobilis
- Plant Type: Evergreen shrub/tree
- USDA Zones: 8–11 outdoors (container grow in colder zones)
- Growth Habit: Dense, upright, bushy
- Bloom Color: Small yellow flowers
- Foliage: Glossy deep green evergreen leaves
- Height: 4–40 feet depending on pruning and climate
- Heirloom: Yes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Organic: Not certified organic
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Preference: Well-drained, fertile soil
- Water Needs: Moderate; avoid soggy soil
- Growth Rate: Slow to medium
- Plant Spacing: 4–8 feet for hedges, wider for trees
- Seed Longevity: 6–12 months if stored properly
Planting Guide
- Lightly scarify seeds (scratch or nick shell) for faster germination.
- Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
- Start indoors in pots; seeds require warmth to germinate.
- Sow 1–1.5 inches deep in well-draining potting soil.
- Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Germination may take 30–60 days or longer.
- Provide bright light and moderate humidity while growing.
- Transplant outdoors only after frost danger has passed.
- Grow in containers in cold climates and overwinter indoors.
- Prune lightly to maintain shape and encourage dense foliage.
