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standard bay leaf tree

The standard bay leaf tree offers a stunning combination of culinary usefulness and elegant landscaping design, making it a favourite among New Zealand gardeners. A standard bay leaf tree is typically Laurus nobilis trained as a single-trunk specimen with a compact, rounded crown, perfect for patios, formal gardens, or as a central feature in containers. Whether you love to cook with fresh aromatic bay leaves or simply enjoy its glossy evergreen foliage, a standard bay leaf tree provides year-round interest and function in any garden setting.

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
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 green leaves that are aromatic when crushed. Flowers produced in spring are pale yellow-green and result in small, glossy, black berries as it grows to 5 m tall and 4 m wide.

From $202.44

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 5.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy
Garden uses: Containers, Culinary, Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen, Topiary
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Cottage, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, White
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Laurus nobilis

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acer, Alectryon, and Arthropodium, or related Categories - Perennials, Evergreen Shrubs, and Deciduous Trees.

Search standard bay leaf tree

Why Choose a Standard Bay Leaf Tree?

Standard bay leaf trees are prized not only for their fragrance and rich colour but also for their versatility. Their tidy, lollipop shape brings a classic touch to entrances, pathways, or herb gardens. Suitable for growing in pots or directly in the ground, these trees thrive in New Zealand's mild climate. With proper pruning, your standard bay leaf tree maintains its attractive form and size, making it low-maintenance and adaptable for both small urban spaces and larger landscapes.

Growing and Caring for a Standard Bay Leaf Tree

The standard bay leaf tree (Laurus nobilis) is easy to grow and long-lived. It prefers a sunny or lightly shaded position in well-drained soil. Bays benefit from regular watering during dry spells—but do not appreciate sitting in soggy soil. Feed annually with a balanced fertiliser, and prune lightly to keep the shape neat. Unlike many other evergreens, bay trees tolerate some neglect while still providing glossy foliage and fresh leaves for all your favourite recipes.

To diversify your garden with other bay varieties, consider exploring Laurus nobilis angustifolia, which features narrow, attractive leaves with the same rich aroma, or Laurus nobilis Pride of Provence, a celebrated cultivar known for vigorous growth and dense foliage.

Culinary and Decorative Uses

Few herbs are as iconic in the kitchen as the standard bay leaf tree. Pluck a leaf or two to enhance soups, stews, and roasted dishes with earthy depth. When grown as a standard, harvesting leaves is extra convenient, and the tree looks stunning in outdoor pots or as a pair flanking your entryway. The tree’s elegant framework also makes it a showpiece when underplanted with lower herbs or flowers.

If you’re seeking variation, Laurus Bay Gold is another bay cultivar ideal for standards, admired for its lush, golden-hued new growth. You might also want to include companion evergreens, such as Correa pulchella Coffin Bay (Correa Coffin Bay), for added colour and textural interest throughout the year.

Find Your Perfect Bay Tree

Whether you’re searching for a classic Laurus nobilis or want to discover new bay leaf tree varieties, you’ll find that the standard bay leaf tree is a timeless choice for both garden structure and homegrown flavour. Create a statement with this versatile plant and elevate your outdoor spaces while enjoying a culinary staple right at your fingertips.

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.
Ficus 'Black Knight' and Lomandra Little Con are popular for a reason, but it’s plants like Metasequoia glyptostroboides, Sorbus aucuparia Scarlet King (Rowan Tree NZ), and Quercus ilex that create a truly unique garden.
–The Plant Company

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