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Laurus nobilis

bay laurel (½ standard stem)

15% off
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With its lustrous, dark green leaves, this evergreen bay laurel standard makes an elegant centrepiece for a formal vegetable garden or potager, or planted in a smart contemporary pot either side of a doorway, will frame an entrance. Clippings of the aromatic leaves are valuable, fresh or dried, for flavouring savoury stocks and sauces. It is pretty tolerant of most conditions, provided it is sheltered from strong, cold winds, and is not kept too wet in winter.

Please note that these are sold individually (not as a pair), and that the timber or terracotta pots in the photographs are not supplied with the plants (which are sent out in simple nursery alternatives) - but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from. Also, some photos show the plants with optional gift wrap, which can be added during the checkout process.

How to care for Laurus nobilis:

Bay laurel grows well in the ground or in pots. For container growing, use a loam-based compost like John Innes No. 2 with added grit for drainage. In open ground, plant in well-drained soil in a sunny or lightly shaded, sheltered spot.

Water regularly while the plant establishes and during dry spells, especially if grown in a pot. Protect container plants from freezing conditions by moving them to a sheltered spot or wrapping the pot in fleece.

Feed in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser. Prune lightly in midsummer and again in late summer to maintain shape, using secateurs for a neat finish.

Harvest mature bay leaves as needed throughout the year—fresh or dried, they store well and retain flavour.

Sizes:

  • ¼ standard plants have a 30-40cm clear stem beneath a 20cm head
  • ½ standard plants have a 45-50cm clear stem beneath a 30cm head
  • ¾ standard plants have a 65-70cm clear stem beneath a 30cm head
  • Standard plants have a 1m clear stem beneath either a 55 or 65cm head
  • Eventual height:
    2m
    Eventual spread:
    2m
    Position:

    Full sun / light shade

    Rate of growth:

    Average

    Soil:

    Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

    Hardiness:

    Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)

    • InformationHumans/Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten

    Product options

    Product options image
    PL30000336
    27cm pot | 30cm head | ½ standard
    was £169.99 now £144.49
    In stock
    (shipped within 2-3 working days)
    Product options image
    PL30003413
    2 × 27cm pot | 30cm head | ½ standard
    was £289.99 now £246.49 £123.25 each
    In stock
    (shipped within 2-3 working days)
    Product options image
    PL020000918
    27cm pot | 30cm head | ¾ standard
    was £249.99 now £212.49
    In stock
    (shipped within 2-3 working days)
    Product options image
    PL30002643
    40cm pot | 30 - 40cm head | ½ standard
    was £249.99 now £212.49
    available to order from spring
    Unavailable
    1
    Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
    Standard Delivery£12.99
    Named Day Delivery£19.99

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