The Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an evergreen plant native to the Mediterranean region and is the source of the aromatic bay leaves used in cooking. When unrestricted, it naturally develops into a substantial woody specimen. The ultimate size of the bay laurel is complex, depending heavily on its growing environment and whether its growth is managed. Understanding the difference between its wild potential and its cultivated reality is important for gardeners.
Natural Growth Potential and Pace
When allowed to grow unrestricted in the ground in its native, warm climate, the bay laurel develops into a true tree structure. In ideal conditions, these plants typically reach heights between 20 and 40 feet. The canopy spread can be equally impressive, often matching the height and forming a dense, rounded shape up to 40 feet wide.
Laurus nobilis has a slow to moderate growth rate. Under optimal conditions, a bay tree may only add 8 to 16 inches of height each year, contributing to its long lifespan, which can exceed 100 years. In cultivation, the tree frequently develops as a multi-stemmed large shrub rather than a single-trunked tree, resulting in a bushy form unless it is trained otherwise.
Size Limitations in Container Gardening
Outside of Mediterranean climates, the bay laurel is often grown in a container, which significantly limits its overall size through root restriction. Confining the plant to a pot naturally suppresses its growth rate, preventing it from reaching its full landscape potential. This method also allows the plant to be moved indoors during winter months, which is necessary in colder regions.
A bay tree grown permanently in a container usually tops out between 4 and 8 feet tall, remaining a manageable size for a patio or indoor space. The container size plays a direct role in the plant’s ultimate dimensions; for example, a 24-inch diameter pot can support a tree of about 5 to 6 feet. Bay laurels tolerate being somewhat root-bound and often only need repotting every five years.
Techniques for Maintaining Desired Size
Pruning is the most effective way to control the bay tree’s height and shape, whether it is planted in the ground or kept in a pot. This species is highly tolerant of being clipped, making it a popular choice for topiary forms like spheres or pyramids. Regular light pruning helps maintain a dense habit and encourages new foliage growth, which is useful for culinary harvesting.
The best time for routine maintenance pruning is during the summer months when the tree is actively growing. Hard pruning can be performed if the tree’s dimensions need significant reduction. Since the bay laurel is slow to recover from severe cuts, it is recommended to spread heavy reduction over two or three seasons, performing the cuts in late spring.