How to Grow Laurel
Wikimedia Commons
Laurel
Laurus nobilis
shrubBay laurel is a slow-growing evergreen shrub with glossy, aromatic dark green leaves that have been prized since ancient times for culinary and ornamental purposes. Native to the Mediterranean region, it produces small yellowish flowers followed by dark purple berries. The plant is highly versatile, thriving in containers and garden settings, and can be trained into formal topiaries.
When should you plant Laurel in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Laurel timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Laurel
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Laurel
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Laurel dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11; can be grown in containers indoors in colder zones
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Get my Laurel timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
4-6 weeksSmall sprouts with 2-4 true leaves emerging; slow germination typical over 3-4 weeks
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright indirect light; protect from cold drafts
Juvenile Growth
6-12 monthsSlow vegetative growth with gradually thickening stems and developing the characteristic glossy foliage
Water regularly but allow drying between waterings; provide full sun; pinch back growing tips to encourage bushier form
Established Shrub
Ongoing - plant reaches maturity around 3-5 yearsDense, woody shrub with abundant dark green aromatic leaves; well-developed root system
Prune as needed for shape; fertilize monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer; harvest leaves regularly
Flowering
3-4 weeksSmall, fragrant yellowish flowers appear in clusters among the foliage, typically in spring
No special care needed; allow flowers to remain for pollination if desired; flowers may be lightly pruned if shaping shrub
Fruiting
Berries develop over 4-6 weeks through fallSmall dark purple to black berries develop after flowering; contain a single seed
Berries can be collected for seed propagation; leave some for wildlife if desired; not typically harvested for culinary use
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap in early spring; prune heavily infested branches; manually remove with soft brush
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Increase humidity by misting foliage; spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Isolate infested plants; spray with insecticidal soap; remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab for small infestations
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Yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; improve air circulation to reduce humidity
Uses
Bay leaves for cooking
CulinaryThe aromatic leaves are a classic culinary herb used to flavor soups, stews, broths, rice dishes, and sauces. A single leaf or small sprig adds subtle flavor depth to long-simmered dishes and is often removed before serving. [source]
Digestive and anti-inflammatory tea
MedicinalBay leaf tea has been traditionally used to support digestion, reduce bloating, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits. The leaves contain compounds like cineole and linalool that may have mild antimicrobial properties. [source]
Natural insect repellent
HouseholdDried bay leaves placed in pantries, flour containers, and grain storage naturally repel weevils, moths, and other pantry pests without toxic chemicals. The aromatic compounds deter insects from infesting stored foods. [source]
Wreaths and decorative topiary
CraftThe dense evergreen foliage and slow growth make laurel ideal for creating formal topiaries, wreaths, and decorative shapes. Laurel wreaths have symbolic significance dating back to ancient Rome. [source]
Food and shelter for birds
WildlifeThe dense foliage provides excellent shelter for nesting birds, and the berries offer food for wildlife during autumn and winter months. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Leaves can be harvested year-round once plant is established (after 1-2 years). Pinch or cut individual leaves or small sprigs as needed for fresh use. For drying, harvest in morning after dew dries; bunch and hang upside down in warm, dry location for 1-2 weeks. Dried leaves maintain flavor for several months when stored in airtight containers. Remove outer leaves to encourage bushier growth.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 In ancient Rome and Greece, bay laurel leaves were woven into wreaths to honor poets, athletes, and military heroes—the origin of the word 'baccalaureate' (bachelor with laurels).
- 🌱 Bay laurel leaves contain volatile oils that are stronger when the leaves are fresh and slightly less aromatic when dried, but dried leaves maintain their flavor longer and become slightly more concentrated.
- 🌱 The plant is extremely slow-growing, typically adding only 3-6 inches per year, which is why young specimens are relatively expensive but reward growers with decades of productivity.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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