Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Laurus nobilis or Laurel

The genus Laurus, family Lauraceae, includes 3 species of trees and shrubs native to the Azores, the Canary Islands and the Mediterranean region. The species are: Laurus nobilis, Laurus novocanariensis, Laurus azorica.

Common names: Laurel, Bay tree, Bay laurel, Sweet bay, True laurel, Grecian laurel. This species is native to the Mediterranean region.

They are shrubs or evergreen trees that can reach 15 meters (49.2 feet) in height. The leathery, dark green leaves are oval in shape and resinous and aromatic oils. They produce tiny little decorative yellow flowers. They bloom in early spring. The bluish-black fruits ripen in autumn.

True laurel is used to form hedges, as isolated specimens, to form bushy groups and in large pots for patios, terraces and as indoor plants.

Laurus nobilis can grow in full sun, semi-shade and shade (in Mediterranean climate) exposures. It resists light and occasional frosts.

Sweet bay grows well in normal drained garden soil with some coarse sand.

Water twice a week in summer, once a week in spring and fall, and reduce watering in winter. Bay laurel does not resist drought.

Grecian laurel tolerates pruning well to maintain a compact bearing or if it's used as a hedge.

Fertilize with compost in autumn and with mineral fertilizer every 6 months.

Laurus nobilis is a plant quite resistant to pests and diseases but can be attacked by mites and mealybugs if it suffers prolonged drought.

True laurel is propagated from seeds sown in spring that germinate quickly and by cuttings in late summer.

Images of the shrub Laurus nobilis or Laurel