About
A compact, upright, evergreen shrub or small tree with strongly aromatic, leathery dark green foliage on reddish stems. Dense clusters of pale, greenish-yellow flowers may appear in the spring. May be clipped into a formal hedge or topiary and an ideal choice for pots and containers. The dried leaves can be used as a seasoning in cooking.
About the genus
Laurus are dioecious evergreen trees or large shrubs, with leathery aromatic leaves, and small yellow flowers followed on female plants by black berries
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbs - Culinary, Shrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens
FragranceFoliage
Care notes
CultivationGrows well in a container. Prefers a well-drained soil in sun or partial shade
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to bay sucker, horse chestnut scale, soft scale and tortrix moth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews, a leaf spot and honey fungus (rarely)