Size Matters:
Choosing the Right Bay Laurel Plant for Your Landscape

Bay laurel plants are a popular choice for landscaping due to their attractive appearance and versatility. These evergreen plants can be used in a variety of ways, from adding a touch of greenery to a patio or balcony to creating a stunning border around a garden. However, choosing the right size bay laurel plant for your landscape is crucial to ensure it thrives and fits seamlessly into your space.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Size Bay Laurel Plant

When deciding on the size of your bay laurel plant, there are several factors to consider that can impact its growth and overall appearance in your landscape.

Space Available

The first thing to consider is the amount of space you have available for your bay laurel plant. If you have a small patio or balcony, a smaller variety such as the dwarf bay laurel (Laurus nobilis ‘Angustifolia’) or ‘Petite’ bay laurel (Laurus nobilis ‘Petite’) would be a better fit. On the other hand, if you have a larger garden or want to create a hedge or border, a larger variety such as ‘Saratoga’ (Laurus nobilis ‘Saratoga’) or ‘Majestic’ (Laurus nobilis ‘Majestic’) may be more suitable.

Climate

Bay laurel plants are native to the Mediterranean region, so they thrive in warm, sunny climates. However, they can also grow in cooler climates with proper care. If you live in an area with cold winters, it’s important to choose a variety that is hardy enough to withstand the temperature fluctuations. For example, the ‘Saratoga’ variety is more cold-hardy than other types of bay laurel.

Growth Rate

Another factor to consider is the growth rate of the bay laurel plant. Some varieties grow faster than others, which can impact how quickly the plant reaches its mature size. If you’re looking for a fast-growing option, consider the ‘Saratoga’ or ‘Majestic’ varieties. If you prefer a slower-growing plant, opt for the dwarf or petite varieties.

Purpose

Lastly, consider the purpose of your bay laurel plant when choosing its size. If you’re using it as a decorative accent on your patio or balcony, a smaller variety may be sufficient. However, if you’re using it as a privacy hedge, you’ll want to choose a larger variety that can grow tall and full.

Popular Sizes of Bay Laurel Plants

There are several popular sizes of bay laurel plants available that can fit any landscape needs. Here are some examples:

Dwarf Bay Laurel

The dwarf bay laurel (Laurus nobilis ‘Angustifolia’) is a slow-growing variety that typically reaches 2-3 feet in height and width. It has smaller leaves than other types of bay laurel and is often used as a decorative accent on patios or balconies.

Petite Bay Laurel

The ‘Petite’ bay laurel (Laurus nobilis ‘Petite’) is another small variety that grows up to 3 feet tall and wide. It has compact foliage and is ideal for small gardens or as part of a mixed planting arrangement.

Saratoga Bay Laurel

The ‘Saratoga’ bay laurel (Laurus nobilis ‘Saratoga’) is a larger variety that can reach up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has dark green leaves and is often used as a hedge or screen due to its dense growth habit.

Majestic Bay Laurel

The ‘Majestic’ bay laurel (Laurus nobilis ‘Majestic’) is similar in size to the Saratoga variety, growing up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has large leaves that are great for culinary use and is often used as an ornamental tree in larger landscapes.

FAQ Section

How much sun does my bay laurel plant need?

Bay laurel plants thrive in full sun to partial shade, so it’s important to choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.

Can I grow bay laurel plants indoors?

Yes, bay laurel plants can be grown indoors as long as they receive adequate sunlight and humidity. However, indoor plants may not reach their full size potential.

How often should I water my bay laurel plant?

Bay laurel plants require regular watering during their first year of growth, usually once per week. Established plants can be watered every two weeks during dry periods.

Can I prune my bay laurel plant?

Yes, pruning can help shape your bay laurel plant and promote healthy growth. Prune in early spring before new growth appears and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Are bay laurel plants poisonous?

While bay laurel leaves are commonly used in cooking, the berries and flowers are toxic if ingested in large quantities. Keep out of reach of children and pets.