| Botanical Name |
Laurus nobilis |
| Common Name |
Bay Leaf, Bay Laurel |
| Family |
Lauraceae |
| Genus |
Laurus |
| Species |
Laurus nobilis |
| Origin |
Native to the Mediterranean region |
| Plant Type |
Evergreen shrub or small tree |
| Height |
2-12 meters (6.5-39 feet) |
| Leaves |
Oval, lance-shaped, glossy, dark green, aromatic, 6-12 cm long |
| Flowers |
Small, pale yellow, in clusters |
| Fruit |
Small, dark purple to black berry |
| Uses |
Culinary herb (flavoring in soups, stews, and sauces), medicinal purposes, ornamental plant |
| Cultivation |
Grown in well-drained soil, prefers full sun to partial shade, drought-tolerant once established |
| Harvesting |
Leaves are harvested and dried for culinary use |
