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sweet bay laurus nobilis

Sweet bay laurus nobilis is a versatile evergreen shrub beloved by New Zealand gardeners for its elegant appearance and aromatic foliage. Often simply called bay laurel, this classic plant offers year-round interest and a wealth of uses in the kitchen, landscape, and even as a potted specimen. Whether you’re searching for a new hedge, culinary herbs, or a hardy garden feature, sweet bay laurus nobilis ticks all the boxes. With glossy, dark green leaves and a refined habit, it suits both formal and informal gardens. Discover how sweet bay laurus nobilis can bring structure, flavour, and beauty to your outdoor space.

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. Its dense growth and glossy foliage make it a popular choice for adding structure and functionality.

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

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Laurus nobilis

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You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Acorus, Castanospermum, Kumquat, Laurus Liquidambar and Viola, or related Categories - Kumquat Trees, Grasses, Perennials, Evergreen Shrubs Deciduous Trees and Evergreen Trees.

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Why Choose Sweet Bay Laurus Nobilis?

Sweet bay laurus nobilis stands out for its adaptability and ease of care. Suitable for coastal conditions, wind-exposed sites, and even dry gardens, this plant thrives in New Zealand’s varied climates. Its aromatic leaves are the gold standard for flavouring soups, stews, and roasts—a staple in both Mediterranean and Kiwi kitchens. Sweet bay laurus nobilis also serves as an excellent hedge or topiary, retaining its dense, upright form with minimal pruning.

If you’re interested in exploring other varieties, consider Laurus nobilis for the classic bay tree, the distinctive Laurus nobilis Pride of Provence, or the slender Laurus nobilis angustifolia. Each offers its own unique flavour and foliage characteristics.

Growing Sweet Bay Laurus Nobilis

Plant sweet bay laurus nobilis in a sheltered spot with well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight to enjoy its lush growth. While tolerant of shade, this plant excels when given at least half a day of sun. It’s slow-growing but responds well to trimming, so shaping a hedge or creating a standout topiary is simple. For container gardening, choose a large pot and use quality potting mix. Water regularly but avoid over-watering, as bay laurel prefers drier conditions.

For those seeking a more compact or columnar look, Laurus Tuscan Tower is an excellent alternative, while Laurus nobilis Miles Choice offers a unique leaf shape and flavour profile.

Culinary and Ornamental Uses

The leaves of sweet bay laurus nobilis are indispensable in the kitchen, infusing dishes with a subtle, savoury depth. Simply harvest fresh or dried leaves for cooking. Many gardeners also value sweet bay laurus nobilis for its ornamental appeal—plant as a specimen, line a walkway, or create a formal entry with paired topiaries.

Mix and match varieties for added flair, such as combining the classic Laurus nobilis with the slender-leaved Laurus nobilis angustifolia, or experiment with the upright form of Laurus Tuscan Tower.

Care Tips and Maintenance

Sweet bay laurus nobilis is easy to maintain. Prune lightly in late spring or early summer to keep its shape and encourage bushy growth. Feed with slow-release fertiliser once a year, and mulch in autumn to conserve moisture. Monitor for pests like bay suckers or scale, but these are generally not a problem in healthy plants.

Explore Our Range

Ready to bring the aromatic charm of sweet bay laurus nobilis to your garden? Browse our selection of classic bay and specialised varieties including Laurus nobilis, Laurus nobilis Pride of Provence, Laurus Tuscan Tower, Laurus nobilis Miles Choice, and Laurus nobilis angustifolia. Find your perfect bay laurel and transform your outdoor or cooking space with this timeless favourite.


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.

Gardenia Veitchii and Buxus sempervirens (Boxwood) are beloved staples, but Leptospermum Wiri Shelley, Prunus Felix Jury, and Hydrangea Piamina bring fresh energy to any planting scheme.
–The Plant Company

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