bay - kitchen laurel
kitchen bay laurel or Laurus nobilis
An evergreen that is grown for its lustrous, aromatic, dark green leaves rather than for the rather insignificant clusters of greenish-yellow flowers it bears in spring. The aromatic leaves are valuable used fresh or dried, for flavouring many savoury stocks, sauces and dishes. You could also use it with spices to add interesting depth to sweet dishes too.
This handsome versatile plant is a kitchen garden classic that will thrive in most conditions, provided it is sheltered from strong winds. At home in formal planting schemes as well as a herb pot just outside the back door it can be easily clipped into a strong shape. This slow-growing evergreen is also perfect for screening and makes a lovely foil for deciduous flowering shrubs.
These plants are supplied as untrained bushes, although they can be trained into most shapes, such as balls or pyramids. You will need some patience to train them into topiary shapes though as they are quite slow-growing.
This handsome versatile plant is a kitchen garden classic that will thrive in most conditions, provided it is sheltered from strong winds. At home in formal planting schemes as well as a herb pot just outside the back door it can be easily clipped into a strong shape. This slow-growing evergreen is also perfect for screening and makes a lovely foil for deciduous flowering shrubs.
These plants are supplied as untrained bushes, although they can be trained into most shapes, such as balls or pyramids. You will need some patience to train them into topiary shapes though as they are quite slow-growing.
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.
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.
Eventual height:
12m
Eventual spread:
10m
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)
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Humans/Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten
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