Bay Leaf, bay Laurel, Laurus nobilis

The bay tree is a very tidy looking evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean. It can look great in a pot and can be shaped into a topiary.

Bay leaves are indispensable in cooking, they are used as a flavour enhancer. The flavour of bay is sweet and savory, with floral, spicy, woodsy, and slightly bitter undertones. Pick them fresh from your tree whenever needed! A must in  spaghetti sauces, pickles, stews, pot roasts.

Bay leaves are highly aromatic and can be used as an insect repellent, to protect stored grain, beans etc from weevils. It works also to deter cockroaches, ants and fleas.

Bay laurel was also used in herbal medicine for seasonal flu’s, respiratory disorders, for a healthy digestive system and to reduce inflammation. It is mainly consumed as a tea.

Plant your bay tree in full sun dappled shade. It does not like maritime exposure. Grows slow and won’t outgrow a pot very fast. Plant it in well-drained soil.