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Laurus Nobilis is an evergreen tree that can grow as tall as 40 feet in its native Mediterranean soil but is otherwise a popular potted herb, not reaching more than 10 feet in height. These are the laurels used by ancient Greeks and Romans as wreaths of honor. Compared to most herbs of Mediterranean origins, Bay needs a richer, moister soil to thrive. It is propagated from cuttings.
Pick the glossy fresh, mature leaves from the tree and add one or two, whole, right into the stew or soup kettle for a mellow flavor. Or harvest and dry them to keep ready anytime in a jar. Bay leaves and berries have been used as remedies for rheumatism, skin rashes, and earaches, as well as for a stomachic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, stimulant, emetic, emmenagogue, abortifacient, and insect repellent. The esssential oil is common in creams, perfumes, and soaps. Bay has no precautions either as a cooking herb or medicine. Sources: Purdue University horticulture fact sheet The Herb Gardener by Susan McClure, 1995 |
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