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laurus nobilis standard

A Laurus nobilis standard is a striking way to add year-round structure and Mediterranean flair to your New Zealand garden, patio, or entranceway. With its classic lollipop silhouette, dense aromatic foliage, and edible leaves, the Laurus nobilis standard makes an elegant statement whether flanking front doors, standing guard along pathways, or bringing formality to a courtyard. This tree, commonly known as the bay leaf, is not just decorative but also offers practical culinary uses, making it a versatile addition for gardeners who love to cook as much as they love to grow.

Laurus nobilis foliage and flowers.

Laurus nobilis

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Laurus nobilis is a much-loved shrub in NZ gardens. It is most commonly grown as a specimen, used as a hedge (both trimmed and untrimmed), added to a mixed planting, or planted as a backdrop for smaller plants. It is an excellent complement to a modern or cottage garden, bringing both formality and elegance to a space. Bay trees are also popular plants for growing in pots, and their evergreen nature and somewhat slower growth habit make them ideal for pool gardens. Little wonder Laurus nobilis is so popular in NZ gardens!

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 12.00 m
Spread: 8.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Containers, Culinary, Hedging, Parks, Screening, Specimen, Topiary
Garden styles: Alpine, Coastal, Cottage, Formal, Japanese, Mediterranean, White
Laurus 'Pride Of Provence' young trees at The Plant Company nursery.

Laurus nobilis Pride of Provence

Laurus nobilis 'Pride of Provence' is a variety of Laurel selected for its compact growth habit. This evergreen tree features lush, glossy, dark green leaves, which are aromatic and somewhat leathery in appearance. Flowers produced in spring are pale yellow-green and result in small and glossy, black berries as it grows to 2 m tall and the same width. Laurus nobilis 'Pride of Provence' is an excellent plant for trimming into a hedge, using as a screening plant, planting as a backdrop for smaller plants, maintaining in a container, or growing as a specimen. The leaves on this variety are the well-known Bay Leaves, and can be used fresh or dry in cooking to add flavour to dishes.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 2.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Culinary, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Specimen, Topiary
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Cottage, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, White
A Laurus nobilis 'Angustifolia' small specimen tree in a garden.

Laurus nobilis angustifolia

Laurus nobilis angustifolia is a variety of Laurel grown for its compact growth habit and elegant foliage. This evergreen tree features lush, dark...

From$477.11
Clonex Rooting Hormone one litre bottle.

Rooting Hormone (Rooting Hormone)

Clonex is the preferred rooting hormone for nurseries across NZ and the world. It is the industry standard for rooting softwood, semi-hardwood, and...

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Budding and GraftingTape

This 19 mm wide tape is the industry standard for tying buds and securing grafts. This petroleum based product provides a seal to retain moisture and...

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Bahco Grafting Knife

This grafting knife from Bacho is the industry standard for all types of grafting including cleft, side approach, and air layering. The design...

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Spray Marker Dye

Envirodye Red is the industry standard for seeing where and what has been sprayed. This powerful dye is commonly mixed with herbicides where a total...

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Grafting Wax

Barkers grafting wax is the industry standard for sealing grafts. This petroleum-based product provides a seal around the graft to retain moisture...

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Laurus nobilis

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Laurus, or related Categories - Marker Dyes, Grafting and Budding, Rooting Hormone Evergreen Shrubs and Evergreen Trees.

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Why Choose Laurus nobilis standard

A Laurus nobilis standard is prized for its tidy, architectural habit and superb resilience. Each tree is skillfully trained to develop a clear stem and rounded crown, offering a clean, elevated look that fits both classical and modern landscaping styles. The evergreen leaves are glossy and aromatic, providing interest in every season. As a bay tree, the Laurus nobilis standard thrives in containers or garden beds, adapting well to pruning and shaping. It can tolerate a range of conditions, including coastal exposure, dry situations, and urban environments. For gardens in New Zealand, it’s a reliable performer that stands up to our climate and adds valuable year-round structure.

Growing and Caring for Laurus nobilis standard

Standard bay trees are easy-care choices for both beginner and seasoned gardeners. Plant your Laurus nobilis standard in a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-drained soil. While reasonably drought-tolerant once established, regular watering will keep them lush and healthy, especially when grown in pots. An occasional feed with a slow-release fertiliser helps encourage lush new growth and vibrant green foliage. Prune annually to maintain the desired shape and size, removing any lower shoots or unruly branches as needed.

For those interested in ornamental or edible choices, be sure to read about the classic Laurus nobilis shrub, which shares the same aromatic qualities in a more natural form.

Landscape Uses for Laurus nobilis standard

The Laurus nobilis standard is a designer favourite for creating accents and structure in both traditional and contemporary settings. They're perfect as specimen plants in courtyard gardens, as elegant potted features on decks or patios, or lining formal driveways. Use a pair of Laurus nobilis standards to frame a doorway, staircase, or garden gate for an inviting effect. Their adaptability to topiary makes them ideal for creative clipping if you wish to maintain precise outlines or experiment with different rounded shapes. For gardeners seeking alternatives with similar formality, explore the uniquely narrow foliage of Laurus nobilis angustifolia or the compact Laurus nobilis Miles Choice.

Discover More Bay Tree Varieties

If you’re searching for a Laurus nobilis standard, why not try companion varieties for added interest? The richly aromatic Laurus nobilis Pride of Provence offers excellent culinary qualities, while the upright Laurus Tuscan Tower brings a vertical accent perfect for smaller spaces or hedges. Explore the full range of ornamental and edible bay trees our nursery offers to find the perfect combination for your garden.

A Laurus nobilis standard truly elevates any outdoor space with formal elegance and practical value, making it a timeless choice for both classic and contemporary New Zealand gardens.


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Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

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