Laurus nobilis L.
Bay tree Bay Laurel Sweet bay
Evergreen shrub or small tree up to 7-18 m tall leaves glabrous 6-12 cm long and 2-4 cm broad flowers unisexual, pale yellow-green fruits small shiny black berry-like
Soil: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline)
Leaves fresh or dried: A spicy, aromatic flavouring, bay leaves are commonly used as a flavouring for soups, stews etc. and form an essential ingredient of the herb mix 'Bouquet Garni'. The flavour of freshly dried, crushed or shredded leaves is stronger than fresh leaves, but the leaves should not be stored for longer than a year since they will then lose their flavour. The essential oil of Laurus nobilis L. is used in the production of soap and also as an aroma in the food and cosmetics industries dry fruits and dry leaves are used for adding fragrance to food and consumed as tea, respectively.
The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and Mazhar Botanic Garden does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes.
