With its lustrous, dark green leaves, this evergreen bay laurel standard makes an elegant centrepiece for a formal vegetable garden or potager, or planted in a smart contemporary pot either side of a doorway, will frame an entrance. Clippings of the aromatic leaves are valuable, fresh or dried, for flavouring savoury stocks and sauces. It is pretty tolerant of most conditions, provided it is sheltered from strong, cold winds, and is not kept too wet in winter.
Please note that these are sold individually (not as a pair), and that the timber or terracotta pots in the photographs are not supplied with the plants (which are sent out in simple nursery alternatives) - but we have a wide and wonderful range on our website to choose from. Also, some photos show the plants with optional gift wrap, which can be added during the checkout process.
How to care for Laurus nobilis:
Keep well-watered during the growing season and feed with a slow-release fertiliser. Clip established plants lightly twice during the summer months to retain a balanced shape, using secateurs not shears.
Sizes:
¼ standard plants have a 30-40cm clear stem beneath a 20cm head½ standard plants have a 45-50cm clear stem beneath a 30cm head¾ standard plants have a 65-70cm clear stem beneath a 30cm headStandard plants have a 1m clear stem beneath either a 55 or 65cm head
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
2m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
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Humans/Pets: Fruit are ornamental - not to be eaten