The bay leaf tree, Laurus nobilis, is a highly sought-after Mediterranean evergreen prized for its aromatic foliage. These leaves are a staple in many culinary traditions, offering a sweet, heady perfume with a subtle spicy note when used in cooking. The plant serves as an attractive ornamental shrub that can be trained into topiary shapes or grown in containers. Acquiring a healthy specimen requires careful consideration of the true species, where to purchase it, and how to inspect it before bringing it home.
Identifying the True Bay Leaf Tree
The first step in purchasing this plant is confirming its identity, as several similar-looking but potentially toxic species are often mislabeled as bay. The true culinary bay, Laurus nobilis, is the only species that should be used in the kitchen. Look-alikes such as Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) and Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia) contain toxic compounds and are not safe for consumption.
To verify the species, perform a crush test on a small leaf. The genuine bay leaf should release a pleasant, distinctly aromatic scent characteristic of the familiar herb. In contrast, the California Bay Laurel (Umbellularia californica), while not toxic, has a significantly more pungent aroma due to a different chemical composition. Visually, the leaves of Laurus nobilis are generally wider, pointier, and possess a deeper green color than the thinner leaves of the California Bay Laurel.
Primary Sources for Purchasing
Local, independent garden centers and nurseries are excellent places to find bay leaf trees, especially for buyers who prefer to inspect a plant before purchase. These sources often stock established specimens, including larger, mature plants or those trained into desirable shapes like topiary standards. Purchasing locally allows the buyer to receive region-specific care advice and ensures the plant does not endure the stress of shipping.
Online specialty nurseries and retailers offer the advantage of a broader selection, including less common cultivars or sizes. When buying live plants online, it is advisable to research the seller’s reputation and review their policies regarding the shipment of live goods. Shipping costs for larger, heavier potted plants can be substantial and should be factored into the overall price.
Big box home improvement stores and general merchandisers sometimes carry bay trees, especially during the spring and summer months. While these options may present a lower initial cost, buyers should exercise increased caution regarding plant health and accurate labeling. Plants sourced from these locations may be subjected to less rigorous care standards, making a thorough pre-purchase inspection even more necessary.
What to Look for When Selecting a Tree
A thorough inspection of the foliage is necessary to ensure the tree’s health before committing to a purchase. Healthy Laurus nobilis leaves should be dark green and glossy, without significant yellowing or brown discoloration. Yellowing leaves can signal nutrient deficiency or, more frequently in potted plants, overwatering in the nursery setting.
Examine the leaves, particularly the undersides and new growth, for signs of pests. Scale insects appear as small, stationary brown or waxy discs on the stems and leaves, often leaving a sticky residue known as honeydew. Another common pest is the bay sucker (Lauritrioza alacris), which causes the leaf margins to curl downwards, thicken, and turn yellow or brown.
Gently check the root system by looking at the drainage holes or carefully sliding the plant partially out of its pot. Look for light-colored roots that fill the container evenly, which indicates a healthy root ball. Avoid plants with roots that are tightly circling the inside of the pot, as this indicates a severely root-bound condition requiring immediate corrective action upon repotting.
Immediate Care After Bringing It Home
Once the bay tree arrives at its new location, the initial focus must be on minimizing transplant shock. If the plant was sourced from a shaded greenhouse or shipped in a box, it must be gradually acclimatized to its new light conditions. Place the tree in a bright, sheltered spot, avoiding immediate exposure to harsh, direct midday sun, which can scorch the unaccustomed leaves.
Repotting into a slightly larger container with fresh material is beneficial, especially if the tree was bought in a small nursery pot. Choose a pot with proper drainage holes to prevent the waterlogged conditions that bay trees cannot tolerate. A well-draining, soil-based compost, such as John Innes No. 2 or 3, is recommended for container cultivation.
To further improve drainage, mix the compost with coarse grit, sand, or perlite before planting, ensuring the soil will not become compacted. After repotting, water the tree deeply until water flows freely from the drainage holes, helping to settle the new soil around the roots. Establishing a watering routine that keeps the soil consistently moist but never soggy is important for the first few weeks as the tree settles into its new home.