This small tree to large shrub as ascending branches that form a compact conical crown. It has glossy dark green aromatic elliptical leaves and the small yellow flowers appear in a cluster during spring and are followed by purplish black berries.

Hardiness zones 7 to 10

Laurus nobilis is naturally found in southern Europe growing in well drained fertile moist soils and is pH adaptable. It prefers an open sunny position and is pollution and drought tender but tolerates light frost. 

Bay Laurel is grown for its compact habit and its foliage. It is planted along borders for screening in small gardens or parks and can be clipped to form a hedge. It is suitable for coastal or inland regions establishing in 3 to 5 years and is long lived. It is also grown in patio tubs or used in herbal gardens. The foliage is used in wreaths, potpourris and for flavouring for cooking. This plant may be trained to form a single trunk tree and once established it is extremely hardy to neglect. ID 456

Laurus (LOW-rus) nobilis (NŌ-bi-lis)

Lauraceae (law-RAY-see-ee)