Bay laurel

Laurus nobilis · Herb

An evergreen Mediterranean shrub whose aromatic leaves season soups and stews. It grows slowly, clips well into neat shapes and is happy in a pot for many years, which suits gardens with cold winters.

💧WaterWhen top 2 in is dry (estimated)

☀️LightFull sun to part shade

🐾PetsHarmful to pets

Care at a glance

Light: Full sun to part shade, 4–6+ hours
Water: When the top 2 in is dry; less in winter
Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile; pH 6.0–8.0
Temperature: Best 60–80 °F; hardy to about 20 °F with shelter
Spacing: 3–6 ft apart as a hedge
Container: 10+ gallons for a mature potted shrub
Harvest: Pick leaves year-round once established
Lifespan: Decades (estimated)

When?

Plant in spring after frosts. In cold regions grow in a pot and move it to a bright, frost-free spot in winter.

Step by step

Buy a young plant; seeds and cuttings are slow and unreliable.
Plant in free-draining soil or a pot with a gritty, loam-based mix.
Water deeply, then let the top 2 in dry before watering again.
Feed potted plants monthly in spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Clip into shape in late spring and again in late summer.
Pick mature leaves as needed; dried leaves keep their aroma for months.
Shelter from cold, drying winds, which brown the leaves in winter.

Common problems

Brown leaf edges in winterCold wind or frost; move to shelter or wrap in fleece.

Sticky leaves and black moldBay sucker or scale; wipe leaves and remove curled tips.

Yellow leavesWaterlogging or hunger; improve drainage and feed in season.

Curled, thickened leaf edgesBay sucker; pick off affected leaves.

Pets

Listed as harmful to cats, dogs and horses; eating the leaves can upset the stomach. If in doubt, ask your vet.

Similar plants

Rosemary Olive Tree Sage

Sources

ASPCA — Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants

This page is general guidance; no pesticide doses are given.