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Laurus nobilis
90cm Spiral Standard | 35cm Head | 7.5L Pot
Plant Highlights: Elegant spiral topiary • Aromatic evergreen foliage • Year-round architectural structure • Ideal for patios and entrances • Culinary bay leaves
Laurus nobilis, commonly known as Bay Laurel, is a classic evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its glossy, aromatic leaves and timeless architectural form. Carefully trained into an elegant spiral standard with a neatly clipped head, it provides year-round structure and makes a striking focal point for entrances, patios and formal gardens.
Native to the Mediterranean, Bay Laurel has been cultivated for centuries for both ornamental and culinary use. In spring, mature plants may produce small greenish-yellow flowers that can develop into glossy black berries on female plants. If left unclipped, it can eventually reach up to 12m in height with a spread of up to 10m, although it is easily maintained at its desired size through regular pruning.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Laurus nobilis |
| Common Name | Bay Laurel |
| Plant Type | Evergreen shrub or small tree |
| Supplied Form | Spiral standard with approximately 35cm head |
| Supplied Height | Approximately 90cm |
| Pot Size | 7.5L (27cm nursery pot) |
| Foliage | Glossy, aromatic evergreen leaves |
| Flowers | Small greenish-yellow flowers in spring |
| Fruit | Black berries on female plants |
| Growth Habit | Upright, evergreen topiary specimen |
| Position | Full sun or light partial shade |
| Soil | Moist, fertile, well-drained soil |
| Mature Height | Up to 12m if left unclipped |
| Mature Spread | Up to 10m if left unclipped |
| Hardiness | Hardy to approximately -5°C; container-grown plants benefit from winter protection in colder or exposed locations |
Grow in full sun or light partial shade in a sheltered position. Bay Laurel performs well in borders and large containers, provided drainage is excellent.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Container-grown plants should be watered whenever the compost begins to dry, particularly during warm weather, while avoiding prolonged waterlogging.
Plant in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. For container growing, use a quality peat-free compost with good drainage.
Hardy to around -5°C. In colder or more exposed parts of Ireland, protect container-grown plants and topiary heads from prolonged hard frosts and drying winter winds by moving containers to a sheltered position or providing suitable winter protection.
Trim lightly during the growing season to maintain the spiral shape. Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser and remove any damaged or misplaced shoots to preserve the clean outline.
Bay leaves are widely used fresh or dried to flavour soups, stews and sauces. Whole leaves should always be removed before serving, as they remain tough and can present a physical choking hazard if swallowed.
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