Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

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

5 from 1 customers

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
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...

From$34.43
Arthropodium Matapouri Bay plant with lush green foliage and masses of white flowers.
Arthropodium 'Matapouri Bay' (Rengarenga Lily)

Arthropodium 'Matapouri Bay' is a variety of the commonly known Renga Renga Lily, featuring mid-green leaves with a graceful and elegant arch. It...

From$19.95
castanospermum-australe-2
Castanospermum australe (Moreton Bay Chestnut)

Castanospermum australe adds distinctive interest to NZ planting. It produces lush, green foilage off upright stems. Clusters of red, peal like...

From$152.64
Metrosideros 'Maungapiko' specimen tree covered in red flowers.
Metrosideros 'Maungapiko'

Metrosideros 'Maungapiko' is a compact New Zealand native pohutukawa cultivar valued for its dense habit, glossy green foliage, and vivid red summer...

From$255.51
Michelia 'Fairy White' white flowers with lush, green foliage.
Michelia 'Fairy White'

Michelia 'Fairy White' is a compact evergreen tree admired for its glossy dark green foliage and fragrant pure white flowers that bloom from late...

From$34.43
Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree) yellow flower amidst lush, green foliage.
Liriodendron tulipifera

Liriodendron tulipifera, commonly known as the Tulip Tree, is a magnificent deciduous tree admired for its stately form and striking flowers. It...

From$387.55
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

From$387.55
zelkova-serrata-
Zelkova serrata

Zelkova serrata is an impressive deciduous tree valued for its graceful branching, attractive green foliage, and colourful autumn display. The finely...

From$323.65
Feijoa Mammoth large fruit.
Feijoa 'Mammoth'

Feijoa 'Mammoth' is a popular, vigorous variety known for producing extra-large, juicy fruit with rich, aromatic flavour. It performs exceptionally...

From$35.81
A Liquidambar 'Gumball' tree with fabulous autumn colours.
Liquidambar styraciflua 'Gumball'

Liquidambar styraciflua 'Gumball' is a small tree grown for its form and fantastic autumn colours. This popular ornamental tree features leaves that...

From$387.55
fuscospora-solandri-
Fuscospora solandri

Fuscospora solandri (Black Beech) is a distinctive New Zealand native evergreen tree valued for its fine foliage, dense canopy, and strong natural...

From$270.40
Feijoa Apollo fruit cut in half.
Feijoa 'Apollo'

Feijoa 'Apollo' trees produce tasty, medium-sized fruit in late autumn. This evergreen shrub typically grows to 3 m tall and 2 m wide but can be...

From$35.81
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
Michelia 'Fairy Blush' flowers tinged with pink amidst lush, dark green foliage.
Michelia 'Fairy Blush'

Michelia 'Fairy Blush' is a compact, evergreen tree admired for its glossy, dark green foliage and fragrant, lilac-pink flowers that bloom from late...

From$136.04
pb-60-planter-bags-
PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' trees with yellow foliage in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata', also known as the Upright Tulip Tree, is a stunning deciduous tree admired for its narrow, columnar form. It...

From$515.35
cedrela-sinensis-flamingo-7
Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree)

Cedrela sinensis 'Flamingo' (Toon Tree) is a spectacular deciduous tree prized for its striking flushes of vibrant pink foliage that mature through...

From$270.40
prunus-southern-gem-
Prunus 'Southern Gem'

Prunus 'Southern Gem' is an attractive deciduous flowering tree valued for its beautiful spring blossom and elegant garden form. The branches become...

From$349.95
Feijoa Triumph fruit on a tree amidst green foliage.
Feijoa 'Triumph'

Feijoa 'Triumph' is a standout choice for New Zealand gardens. Feijoa 'Triumph' produces medium to large-sized, oval fruit with a firm skin in...

From$35.81
pb-28-planter-bags-
PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
Feijoa 'Opal Star' fruit.
Feijoa 'Opal Star'

Feijoa 'Opal Star' is a standout choice for New Zealand gardens. Feijoa 'Opal Star' is a late-season variety of Feijoa that produces medium to...

From$41.33
Feijoa sellowiana fruit on a tree.
Feijoa sellowiana

Feijoa sellowiana, commonly known as Brazilian Guava or Pineapple Guava, is one of the original Feijoa varieties from which many new varieties have...

From$35.81
Feijoa White Goose fruit cut in half.
Feijoa 'White Goose'

Feijoa 'White Goose' is an early-maturing variety that produces high yields of large fruit. The fruit has a semi-smooth, light green skin and flesh...

From$35.81
prunus-pink-cloud-
Prunus 'Pink Cloud'

Prunus 'Pink Cloud' is an attractive deciduous flowering tree valued for its beautiful pink spring blossom and elegant garden form. The branches...

From$279.95
A large Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa tree).
Beilschmiedia tawa (Tawa Tree)

Beilschmiedia tawa, commonly known as the Tawa Tree, is a tall and graceful evergreen native to New Zealand. It is admired for its straight trunk...

From$313.00
tree-and-shrub-fertiliser-
Tree Fertiliser

Using tree fertiliser results in plants having better quality foliage, more profuse flowering, stronger stems, and a much healthier and brighter...

From$16.95
jute-tree-tie-1
Jute Tree Tie

Jute Tree Tie is a natural and flexible option for securing young trees to stakes while they establish. The soft material helps reduce rubbing and...

From$64.67
emguard-biodegradable-plant-shelter-
Tree Guards

Tree Guards provide a simple and effective way to protect young trees from animals, wind, accidental damage, and herbicide spray. They create a...

From$5.00
cloth-tree-tie-
Cloth Tree Tie

Cloth Tree Ties are a soft, flexible solution for securely supporting young trees and plants while they establish. Made from durable cloth material...

From$9.28
Laurus nobilis

Did you find what you are looking for?

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

Illustration of plant leaves.
Everyone knows classic varieties like Ficus 'Black Knight' and Rose 'Flower Carpet White', but you might just fall in love with Prunus 'Pendula Rosea', Zieria prostrata, and Ophiopogon planiscapus.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.8

466 Google reviews