Herbs · Everyday herb

Bay laurel

Laurus nobilis · also called Sweet bay, Bay leaf · planet: Sun

A glossy, evergreen Mediterranean tree whose leathery, aromatic leaves are the bay leaf of soups and stews.

In the garden

Full sun to part shade, well-drained soil, shelter from cold wind. It does well in a large pot and clips into neat shapes.

In the kitchen

Add a leaf or two to stocks, stews, beans and rice. Always remove it before serving, since the leaf stays hard and sharp.

Take care

• Remove whole bay leaves before eating; they can cut the throat.
• Bay laurel is toxic to cats and dogs.
• Do not confuse it with cherry laurel or mountain laurel, which are poisonous.

Folklore and garden information only, not medical advice. Do not eat or use any plant unless you are certain what it is and that it is safe for you. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, on medicine, or choosing for children or pets.

Where to buy

Dried herb

• Mountain Rose Herbs Organic dried herbs and botanicals.
• Starwest Botanicals Bulk dried herbs, spices and teas.

Seeds

• Botanical Interests Seed packets for herb and flower gardens.
• Burpee Seeds and young plants.
• Park Seed Seeds and live plants. Search for the herb once you are on their site.

Live plants

• Burpee Seeds and young plants.
• Park Seed Seeds and live plants. Search for the herb once you are on their site.

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