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standard bay tree

A standard bay tree is a classic choice for New Zealand gardens, prized for its elegant form and aromatic foliage. With their neat, lollipop-shaped heads atop clear stems, standard bay trees bring instant sophistication to courtyards, decks, or formal entryways. Not only do they create structural interest year-round, but their edible leaves add distinctive depth to your cooking. Whether lining a pathway or spotlighting a decorative pot, the standard bay tree is a striking blend of utility and beauty.

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 - Castanospermum, Laurus, and Liriodendron, or related Categories - Deciduous Trees, and Evergreen Trees.

Search standard bay tree

Why Choose a Standard Bay Tree for Your Garden?

The standard bay tree (Laurus nobilis) is a timeless favourite for its versatility and reliability. Its evergreen leaves stay lush and green throughout the year, requiring minimal maintenance. Standard bay trees thrive in containers or garden beds, adapting well to New Zealand climates. Their compact topiary style makes them perfect for formal gardens, patio features, or flanking entrances. You can regularly harvest the aromatic leaves for traditional culinary use, adding a homegrown flavour to casseroles, soups, and stews.

Care and Growing Tips for Standard Bay Tree

Looking after a standard bay tree is straightforward. They prefer a sunny to part-shaded position with well-draining soil. If growing in a pot, use a quality container mix and water consistently but allow the surface to dry between watering. Prune your standard bay tree lightly to keep its rounded shape and remove any suckers at the base. Feed with a slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy growth and foliage.

In cold regions, protect your bay tree from heavy frosts or strong winds, and consider moving potted specimens to a sheltered spot during winter. With care, your standard bay tree can live and thrive for decades.

Companion Choices and Varieties

Expand your Mediterranean-inspired garden or edible border by exploring related plants and bay tree varieties. For a wider selection, consider the striking golden-splashed foliage of Laurus Bay Gold, or the narrow-leaved Laurus nobilis angustifolia, ideal for a refined or compact setting. The robust Laurus nobilis Pride of Provence delivers reliable performance and aromatic leaves, while the classic Laurus nobilis is the true laurel behind every quality bay tree.

If you're seeking another evergreen with architectural flair, Callitris rhomboidea (Oyster Bay Pine) offers a unique New Zealand native alternative for hedging or screening projects.

Transform Your Space With a Standard Bay Tree

Whether you're aiming to create a formal garden, add year-round colour to your courtyard, or simply want a kitchen staple within arm's reach, the standard bay tree is an enduring, low-maintenance option. Explore our range and discover how a standard bay tree can transform your outdoor living space with structure, elegance, and culinary possibilities.

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.

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Everyone knows classic varieties like Rosmarinus prostratus (Creeping Rosemary) and Griselinia 'Canterbury', but you might just fall in love with Camellia 'Koto no Kaori', Clerodendrum ugandense (Butterfly Bush), and Acaena purpurea (Piripiri).
–The Plant Company

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