Laurus nobilis
bay laurel (½ standard stem)
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.
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:
Bay laurel grows well in the ground or in pots and is ideal for sunny or lightly shaded, sheltered spots, patios or south-facing aspects. In containers, use a loam-based compost like John Innes No.2 with added grit for good drainage; in the ground, plant into well-drained soil that’s neutral to slightly alkaline. Water regularly while the plant is establishing and during dry spells, especially for pot-grown plants, and feed in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser to support healthy growth.
For topiary and shape, lightly clip established plants in midsummer and again in late summer, using sharp secateurs rather than shears to minimise damage to the leaves. Harvest mature leaves as needed throughout the year—fresh or dried, they keep their flavour well. In winter, protect container-grown bay from frost by moving it to a sheltered position or insulating the pot/plant in situ with horticultural fleece.
For topiary and shape, lightly clip established plants in midsummer and again in late summer, using sharp secateurs rather than shears to minimise damage to the leaves. Harvest mature leaves as needed throughout the year—fresh or dried, they keep their flavour well. In winter, protect container-grown bay from frost by moving it to a sheltered position or insulating the pot/plant in situ with horticultural fleece.
Sizes:
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
2m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Average
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
27cm pot | 30cm head | ½ standard
was £169.99
now £135.99
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
2 × 27cm pot | 30cm head | ½ standard
was £289.99
now £231.99
£116.00 each
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
27cm pot | 30cm head | ¾ standard
£249.99
In stock
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
(shipped within 2-3 working days)
40cm pot | 30 - 40cm head | ½ standard
£249.99
available to order from spring
Unavailable
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