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laurus nobilis sweet bay tree

The laurus nobilis sweet bay tree is a classic evergreen prized by New Zealand gardeners for its decorative foliage, aromatic leaves, and versatility in the landscape. Not only is the sweet bay tree a favourite for culinary use—its glossy, aromatic leaves bring depth and flavour to soups and stews—but it’s also a timeless ornamental plant. This Mediterranean native adapts well to local conditions, thriving in pots, borders, or as a stately hedge around your garden. If you’re searching for an attractive evergreen with classic appeal and practical uses, the laurus nobilis sweet bay tree is a top choice to consider.

Laurus nobilis foliage and flowers.

Laurus nobilis

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Laurus nobilis, commonly known as Sweet Bay Tree or Bay Laurel, is a versatile evergreen tree prized for its aromatic leaves and classic form. It provides year round structure in New Zealand gardens and is widely used for both ornamental and culinary purposes. This hardy plant is ideal for hedging, topiary, or feature planting.

From $34.43

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.

From $41.33

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$202.44
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Laurus nobilis

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Castanospermum, Feijoa, and Laurus, or related Categories - General Garden Fertiliser, Planter Bags, and Feijoa.

Search laurus nobilis sweet bay tree

Why Grow a Laurus Nobilis Sweet Bay Tree?

Whether you are a passionate home cook or a landscape enthusiast, there are plenty of reasons to plant a laurus nobilis sweet bay tree. Its aromatic leaves can be harvested year-round and make a wonderful addition to seasoning mixes. As an ornamental specimen, the sweet bay tree boasts dense, deep green foliage and a natural upright form, making it ideal for formal hedging, container planting, or even as a dramatic feature in the garden. It is hardy, tolerates mild frost, and prefers a sunny position with well-drained soil—a great match for many regions across New Zealand.

Care and Planting Tips

The laurus nobilis sweet bay tree thrives best when planted in fertile, free-draining soil and exposed to full sun for healthy, vigorous growth. Regular watering is important, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogged conditions. If grown in containers, choose a large pot to accommodate its slow-growing roots. Pruning keeps your sweet bay tree compact and encourages lush new leaf growth. Bay trees are generally disease resistant, making them easy-care additions to your garden. For more detailed care advice and to compare related varieties, view our Laurus nobilis page.

Culinary and Landscape Uses

The laurus nobilis sweet bay tree is valued as much for its practical uses as it is for its handsome presence. Harvest the leaves fresh or dry them for long-term use in the kitchen—the flavour develops and intensifies as the leaves dry. For those wishing to create a classic Mediterranean garden or formal borders, bay trees are perfect for shaping into topiaries and clipped hedges. If you’re interested in alternative bay varieties or unique leaf forms, take a look at our Laurus nobilis Pride of Provence, Laurus Tuscan Tower, Laurus nobilis Miles Choice, and Laurus nobilis angustifolia pages to discover even more selection and inspiration.

Choosing the Right Bay for Your Garden

When selecting your laurus nobilis sweet bay tree, consider your garden’s size and your preferred use—whether culinary harvesting, decorative hedging, or formal styling. Bay trees are adaptable, long-lived, and bring a touch of timeless elegance to any New Zealand garden. For gardeners seeking the classic bay as well as unique cultivars, our broad range includes options to suit every landscape and taste. Visit our Laurus nobilis collection to explore the full selection, or dive into specialty varieties like Laurus Tuscan Tower for a compact columnar form.

Ready to bring year-round beauty and flavour to your garden? Start your bay journey today and enjoy the classic character only laurus nobilis sweet bay tree can provide.

Contact us

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
Celebrate your favourites like Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood) and Gardenia radicans, then branch out with Callistemon 'Hot Pink' (Pink Bottlebrush), Feijoa 'Arhart', and Camellia 'Cinnamon Cindy'.
–The Plant Company

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