How to identify Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis)
Bay laurel, also known as Grecian laurel, Bay tree
Bay laurel is an evergreen shrub or small tree, exhibiting moderate growth to reach heights of 10-25 feet (3-7.6 meters) and nearly equal spread. It is characterized by aromatic, elliptical leaves that span 3 to 5 inches (7.6 to 12.7 cm) in length, with a leathery texture and dark green hue. Dioecious by nature, it produces inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in early summer, leading to ½ inch (about 1.3 cm) dark green-to-black berries on female plants during fall. Bay laurel thrives in a range of light conditions and is resilient to frost, making it versatile for various garden settings.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
Leaf Type: Evergreen
Simple, ovate leaves with blue-green to gray-green colors, emitting fragrance when crushed.
Dioecious plant with inconspicuous yellowish-white to greenish-yellow flowers in leaf axils.
Small, egg-shaped berries transitioning from black to dark purple, persisting after falling.
Moderate-sized evergreen shrub or small tree, reaching 10-25 feet (3-7.6 meters) in height.
Clusters of modest 0.2-inch (5 mm) flowers with subtle fragrance bloom from March to May.
The leaves of bay laurel are simple, alternate, and ovate, measuring approximately 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. Their colors range from a striking blue-green to a silvery gray-green. The leaves are smooth and leathery, with an elliptic shape and either smooth edges or edges lined with rounded teeth. One of the most distinctive features is the fragrant aroma they release when crushed. The vein pattern is pinnate and clear upon close inspection, contributing to its rich texture.
The flowers of bay laurel are dioecious, with male and female flowers on separate trees. They bloom from March to May, appearing in clusters in the leaf axils. The flowers are small, measuring about 0.2 inches (5 mm) across, and are yellowish white to greenish yellow in color. Each flower consists of four petals, giving it a modest and understated appearance. These flowers emit a subtle, mild fragrance, adding to their delicate charm.
The fruit of bay laurel is characterized by small, egg-shaped berries that transition in color from black to a dark purple upon reaching full ripeness. These berries are typically 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch (about 6 mm to 13 mm) in size. When dry, the fruits have been noted to contribute to litter due to their persistence after falling to the ground. Their distinctive hue and shape are significant in making them noticeable amidst the foliage of bay laurel.
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Scientific Classification of Bay laurel
