Laurus

The Best Laurus Plants And Trees In NZ

When it comes to enhancing your garden with lush greenery and aromatic plants, Laurus plants and trees, commonly known as bay trees, are a popular choice among New Zealand gardeners. These versatile plants not only add aesthetic appeal but also serve practical uses in cooking and herbal medicine. Let's explore the best Laurus plants and trees you can find in NZ and how they can elevate your garden space.

Why Choose Laurus Plants?

Laurus plants, particularly Laurus nobilis, are cherished for their glossy, dark-green leaves and their ability to thrive in a variety of climates. Their aromatic leaves are a staple in culinary dishes, offering a subtle yet distinctive flavor. Moreover, these plants are relatively low-maintenance, making them a great choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.

What Is The Common Name For Laurus?

The common name for Laurus is Bay laurel. It is also known by a number of other common names:

• True laurel
• Sweet bay
• Grecian laurel
• Laurel tree
• Bay tree

Bay laurel is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to the Mediterranean region. It is widely cultivated for its aromatic leaves, which are used as a culinary herb in many cuisines. Bay laurel leaves are also used in making laurel wreaths, which are traditionally awarded to victors in competitions.

Popular Varieties of Laurus in NZ

Standard Laurus Trees

For those looking to make a statement, standard Laurus trees are an ideal option. These trees are trained to grow with a single trunk and a rounded canopy, giving them a formal appearance perfect for entryways or as focal points in the garden. You can buy standard bay tree from The Plant Company.

Dwarf Laurus Varieties

If space is a constraint, consider Standard Laurus varieties or those that naturally grow smaller. These compact plants are perfect for smaller gardens or container planting. Despite their size, they retain the same rich foliage and aromatic leaves as their larger counterparts, making them a versatile addition to any garden.

Where to Buy Laurus Plants in NZ

Finding the right Laurus plants for your garden is an effortless task thanks to The Plant Company. We have great stocks of high quality plants and trees of all kinds. We appreciate that buying online is somewhat of a leap of faith, given you are putting your trust in us. Please rest assured that we only ship plants that we would happily buy and plant ourselves. Trust in The Plant Company to supply your Laurus needs and allow us to impress you both with our quality and service. Our impressive Google Rating shows we are good at what we do!

Caring for Your Laurus Plants

Once you've acquired your Laurus plants, proper care is essential to maintain their health and longevity. These plants prefer well-drained soil and a sunny to partly shaded location. Regular pruning will help maintain their shape and promote healthy growth. During dry spells, ensure they receive adequate water, but avoid waterlogging, which can harm the roots.

What Is Laurus Used For?

Laurus nobilis, or bay laurel, is a versatile plant with a wide range of uses:

• Culinary herb: Bay laurel leaves are a popular culinary herb used in many cuisines around the world. They have a strong, aromatic flavour that adds depth to soups, stews, sauces, and other dishes. Bay leaves are also used in pickling and brining.
• Medicinal plant: Bay laurel leaves have a number of medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and digestive properties. Bay laurel leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including colds, flu, indigestion, and headaches.
• Essential oil: Bay laurel essential oil is extracted from the leaves and berries of the bay laurel tree. It has a strong, spicy aroma that is used in aromatherapy, perfumery, and soapmaking. Bay laurel essential oil is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including respiratory infections, skin conditions, and muscle pain.
• Decorative plant: Bay laurel trees are beautiful and versatile plants that can be used in landscaping and planting in containers. Bay laurel trees can be trimmed into hedges or topiaries, and their leaves can be used to make wreaths and other decorative arrangements.

In addition to these uses, bay laurel is also used in a variety of other ways, such as:

• Repellent: Bay laurel leaves can be used to repel insects, such as mosquitoes and ants.
• Air freshener: Bay laurel leaves can be used to freshen the air in your home.
• Cleaning product: Bay laurel essential oil can be used to make a natural cleaning product.
• Dye: Bay laurel leaves can be used to dye fabric yellow.