Bay Laurel - Laurus Nobilis
Regular price
$55.00
Size
Transform Your Garden into a Culinary Paradise
Bay Laurel gives you fresh, aromatic leaves for year-round cooking, so you can step outside, harvest a bay leaf, and add deep, savory flavor to soups, stews, sauces, meats, and baked dishes without relying on tired store-bought dried leaves.
Also known as sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, bay tree, and laurus nobilis bay laurel, this evergreen tree brings together the usefulness of a culinary herb and the structure of a refined garden plant. Keep it as a small tree near the front door, shape it as a patio topiary, or grow it in containers for fresh or dried bay leaves whenever your kitchen needs them.
Why You’ll Love Bay Laurel
-
Fresh Culinary Leaves – Harvest aromatic leaves year-round from mature bay laurel trees for culinary or medicinal use, especially in soups, stews, Mediterranean cuisines, sauces, meats, and baked dishes.
-
Low-Maintenance Evergreen – Bay laurel thrives with minimal care once established in USDA zones 8-10, and bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant when watered only after the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
-
Elegant Garden Feature – Glossy dark green leaves and evergreen leaves add year-round structure, while regular pruning lets you shape this laurel tree into a topiary, privacy hedge, large shrub, or compact small tree.
-
Container-Friendly – An excellent choice for patios, herb garden designs, and container plants, especially where cold weather means the plant should be brought indoors for winter protection, and easily available when you shop Bay Laurel plants online.
-
Long-Lived Investment – Bay laurel is slow growing, grows slowly at a manageable pace, and can live for decades, giving your garden steady growth, useful branches, and reliable bay laurel leaves season after season, much like other mature trees for instant landscape impact.
Bay leaves provide a deep flavor in dishes that can’t be found in other herbs, making them a staple in many recipes for soups, stews, and baked dishes. Bay leaves have a sweet and heady aroma, adding a savory flavor with a spicy nutmeg note, and they taste more pungent when used fresh.
What Makes Bay Laurel Different
Most herbs are annual, short-lived, or die back when the season changes. Bay Laurel is different: it is a half-hardy perennial, an evergreen tree in the laurel family, and a productive culinary herb you can keep for years with the right soil type, sun exposure, and pruning.
-
Perennial Harvest – Unlike annual herbs, laurus nobilis provides fresh bay leaves every season without replanting, and the leaves can be harvested year round once the plant is mature.
-
Superior Flavor – Fresh bay leaves offer a more complex, aromatic flavor than many dried leaves from the store, with the pungent lift that makes bay so valuable in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes.
-
Dual-Purpose Plant – This tree works as both an ornamental evergreen and a productive culinary herb, adding green structure to the garden while giving you whole leaves for cooking, similar to many evergreen privacy and fast-growing trees.
Bay leaves are commonly used in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes, especially in sauces, soups, and meats, and are often included in a Bouquet Garni. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving, which makes whole leaves especially practical for everyday cooking.
Bay laurel also has a long history. Native to the Mediterranean basin and known from ancient Greece, laurel was associated with honor, protection, and even folklore about lightning strikes. Today, true laurel remains prized because laurus nobilis has a balanced flavor compared with stronger bay substitutes and stands out among many popular landscape trees for home gardens.
How Bay Laurel Works in Your Garden
-
Plant and Establish
Place bay laurel in well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade exposure. Bay laurel requires well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade for successful growth, whether planted in the ground or grown in containers on a patio. -
Grow and Shape
Prune bay laurel trees anytime in late spring or summer to maintain size and promote bushiness and healthy growth. Regular pruning and shaping are necessary to keep bay laurel manageable, especially when grown in a container, and it can be shaped into a topiary or used as a privacy hedge. -
Harvest and Enjoy
Pick mature dark green leaves as needed for fresh cooking or drying. Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use, and mature leaves are the most flavorful choice for soups stews, sauces, and slow-cooked meals.
For wellness-minded gardeners, bay laurel leaves provide prominent digestive and antioxidant health benefits. Bay leaf tea is traditionally used to soothe upset stomachs, reduce bloating, and calm intestinal cramps. Active enzymes in bay laurel can help break down complex proteins and calm gastrointestinal issues.
The medicinal attributes of bay laurel stem from its concentration of active plant compounds like tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils like eugenol. Some studies suggest that consuming ground bay leaves may improve insulin function and lower serum glucose and cholesterol levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. If using ground bay leaves or bay leaf preparations medicinally, use only true culinary Laurus nobilis and speak with a healthcare professional for personal guidance.
Plant Details
-
Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
-
Common Names: Bay laurel, bay tree, sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, laurel tree
-
Plant Type: Evergreen tree, large shrub, half-hardy perennial, culinary herb
-
Family: Laurel family
-
Native Range: Mediterranean basin
-
Mature Size: 6-60 feet tall depending on growing conditions, pruning, and whether it is planted in the ground or kept as a container plant
-
Hardiness: Best outdoors in USDA zones 8-10; bay laurel is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below so it can be brought indoors during cold weather
-
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; slow growth makes it easier to maintain as a patio plant, hedge, or small tree
-
Light: Full sun to partial shade
-
Soil: Well drained soil is essential; avoid soggy ground
-
Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; established bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant
-
Container Recommendation: Start with a roomy container and increase pot size as the roots and shoots develop
-
Pruning: Prune in late spring or summer to manage height, encourage healthy growth, and create bushier branches
-
Harvest: Mature bay laurel leaves may be used fresh or dried; whole leaves should be removed before serving
-
Flowers and Fruit: Bay laurel has male and female trees; female trees may produce fruit if a compatible male tree is nearby for pollination, with small blossoms appearing in spring to early summer, making it one of several attractive ornamental laurel trees for landscaping
-
Propagation: Bay laurel can be planted either as a cutting or by purchasing a young potted tree, with cuttings being the preferred method due to faster growth
Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a half-hardy perennial that can grow into a sizable tree, reaching heights of up to 60 feet in its native Mediterranean climate, but is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below. In California gardens, bay laurel is an excellent condition-friendly choice for many coastal, foothill, and inland areas where drainage is strong and winter cold is not extreme, especially if you’re looking for a convenient plant nursery to supply your yard.
Bay leaves are used in cooking, dried leaves can be stored for later, and ground bay leaves are sometimes discussed for wellness use. The plant’s essential oils are also valued in traditional aromatic applications, including massage therapy products, though Yardwork’s bay laurel plants are intended for garden, patio, and culinary use, alongside other versatile options like English Laurel for hedging and structure.
Who Bay Laurel Is For
Ideal for:
-
Home cooks who love Mediterranean cuisines, French cooking, Italian sauces, Spanish stews, Creole dishes, and slow-simmered soups
-
Gardeners who want a fresh bay leaf supply instead of repeatedly buying dried bay leaves from stores
-
Container gardeners with limited space, patios, balconies, or a sunny front door location
-
California homeowners who want an evergreen tree or shrub that looks elegant and works hard
-
Landscape enthusiasts looking for low-maintenance structure, a formal topiary, or a privacy hedge, and who may also be considering other structural shrubs like Carrotwood or compact boxwood options or native choices such as Toyon for California-friendly hedging
-
Herb garden growers who want a long-lived culinary herb with aromatic leaves and year-round usefulness
If you want fresh flavor, evergreen structure, and a plant that can be pruned to fit your space, bay laurel fits beautifully. It gives you bay leaves for cooking, glossy green foliage for the garden, and a durable laurel presence that improves with age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow bay laurel in containers?
Yes. Bay laurel is one of the best container plants for cooks and patio gardeners. Use a well drained potting mix, place the container in full sun or partial shade, and move the plant indoors or to a protected spot during hard freezes. Container growing is especially useful in USDA Zones 7 and below.
How long before I can harvest leaves?
Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use. Young potted trees may provide light harvests once they are established, but the best bay laurel leaves usually come from older, darker green growth. Harvest whole leaves as needed, then remove bay leaves before serving cooked dishes.
Will bay laurel survive California winters?
In many parts of California, yes. Bay laurel thrives outdoors in USDA zones 8-10, especially where soil is well drained and the plant has full sun to partial shade. In colder inland or mountain areas, grow bay laurel in containers so it can be brought indoors or moved to a sheltered microclimate during cold snaps.
Is bay laurel the same as California bay?
No. True culinary bay laurel is Laurus nobilis. California bay is a different species with a much stronger, more camphorous flavor. Yardwork’s bay laurel is selected for the classic sweet bay flavor used in Mediterranean cooking.
How should I use bay leaves in cooking?
Use whole leaves fresh or dried to add flavor to soups, sauces, beans, meats, stews, and braises. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving.
Ready to Add Fresh Bay Leaves to Your Garden?
Choose Bay Laurel from Yardwork and grow a long-term culinary investment that brings fresh aroma, evergreen beauty, and practical harvests to your garden, patio, or herb garden.
Yardwork delivers healthy, nursery-grown plants selected for strong roots, reliable growth, and arrival in excellent condition, making it easier to establish your own laurus nobilis bay laurel at home.
Transform Your Garden into a Culinary Paradise
Bay Laurel gives you fresh, aromatic leaves for year-round cooking, so you can step outside, harvest a bay leaf, and add deep, savory flavor to soups, stews, sauces, meats, and baked dishes without relying on tired store-bought dried leaves.
Also known as sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, bay tree, and laurus nobilis bay laurel, this evergreen tree brings together the usefulness of a culinary herb and the structure of a refined garden plant. Keep it as a small tree near the front door, shape it as a patio topiary, or grow it in containers for fresh or dried bay leaves whenever your kitchen needs them.
Why You’ll Love Bay Laurel
-
Fresh Culinary Leaves – Harvest aromatic leaves year-round from mature bay laurel trees for culinary or medicinal use, especially in soups, stews, Mediterranean cuisines, sauces, meats, and baked dishes.
-
Low-Maintenance Evergreen – Bay laurel thrives with minimal care once established in USDA zones 8-10, and bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant when watered only after the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
-
Elegant Garden Feature – Glossy dark green leaves and evergreen leaves add year-round structure, while regular pruning lets you shape this laurel tree into a topiary, privacy hedge, large shrub, or compact small tree.
-
Container-Friendly – An excellent choice for patios, herb garden designs, and container plants, especially where cold weather means the plant should be brought indoors for winter protection, and easily available when you shop Bay Laurel plants online.
-
Long-Lived Investment – Bay laurel is slow growing, grows slowly at a manageable pace, and can live for decades, giving your garden steady growth, useful branches, and reliable bay laurel leaves season after season, much like other mature trees for instant landscape impact.
Bay leaves provide a deep flavor in dishes that can’t be found in other herbs, making them a staple in many recipes for soups, stews, and baked dishes. Bay leaves have a sweet and heady aroma, adding a savory flavor with a spicy nutmeg note, and they taste more pungent when used fresh.
What Makes Bay Laurel Different
Most herbs are annual, short-lived, or die back when the season changes. Bay Laurel is different: it is a half-hardy perennial, an evergreen tree in the laurel family, and a productive culinary herb you can keep for years with the right soil type, sun exposure, and pruning.
-
Perennial Harvest – Unlike annual herbs, laurus nobilis provides fresh bay leaves every season without replanting, and the leaves can be harvested year round once the plant is mature.
-
Superior Flavor – Fresh bay leaves offer a more complex, aromatic flavor than many dried leaves from the store, with the pungent lift that makes bay so valuable in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes.
-
Dual-Purpose Plant – This tree works as both an ornamental evergreen and a productive culinary herb, adding green structure to the garden while giving you whole leaves for cooking, similar to many evergreen privacy and fast-growing trees.
Bay leaves are commonly used in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes, especially in sauces, soups, and meats, and are often included in a Bouquet Garni. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving, which makes whole leaves especially practical for everyday cooking.
Bay laurel also has a long history. Native to the Mediterranean basin and known from ancient Greece, laurel was associated with honor, protection, and even folklore about lightning strikes. Today, true laurel remains prized because laurus nobilis has a balanced flavor compared with stronger bay substitutes and stands out among many popular landscape trees for home gardens.
How Bay Laurel Works in Your Garden
-
Plant and Establish
Place bay laurel in well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade exposure. Bay laurel requires well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade for successful growth, whether planted in the ground or grown in containers on a patio. -
Grow and Shape
Prune bay laurel trees anytime in late spring or summer to maintain size and promote bushiness and healthy growth. Regular pruning and shaping are necessary to keep bay laurel manageable, especially when grown in a container, and it can be shaped into a topiary or used as a privacy hedge. -
Harvest and Enjoy
Pick mature dark green leaves as needed for fresh cooking or drying. Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use, and mature leaves are the most flavorful choice for soups stews, sauces, and slow-cooked meals.
For wellness-minded gardeners, bay laurel leaves provide prominent digestive and antioxidant health benefits. Bay leaf tea is traditionally used to soothe upset stomachs, reduce bloating, and calm intestinal cramps. Active enzymes in bay laurel can help break down complex proteins and calm gastrointestinal issues.
The medicinal attributes of bay laurel stem from its concentration of active plant compounds like tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils like eugenol. Some studies suggest that consuming ground bay leaves may improve insulin function and lower serum glucose and cholesterol levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. If using ground bay leaves or bay leaf preparations medicinally, use only true culinary Laurus nobilis and speak with a healthcare professional for personal guidance.
Plant Details
-
Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
-
Common Names: Bay laurel, bay tree, sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, laurel tree
-
Plant Type: Evergreen tree, large shrub, half-hardy perennial, culinary herb
-
Family: Laurel family
-
Native Range: Mediterranean basin
-
Mature Size: 6-60 feet tall depending on growing conditions, pruning, and whether it is planted in the ground or kept as a container plant
-
Hardiness: Best outdoors in USDA zones 8-10; bay laurel is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below so it can be brought indoors during cold weather
-
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; slow growth makes it easier to maintain as a patio plant, hedge, or small tree
-
Light: Full sun to partial shade
-
Soil: Well drained soil is essential; avoid soggy ground
-
Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; established bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant
-
Container Recommendation: Start with a roomy container and increase pot size as the roots and shoots develop
-
Pruning: Prune in late spring or summer to manage height, encourage healthy growth, and create bushier branches
-
Harvest: Mature bay laurel leaves may be used fresh or dried; whole leaves should be removed before serving
-
Flowers and Fruit: Bay laurel has male and female trees; female trees may produce fruit if a compatible male tree is nearby for pollination, with small blossoms appearing in spring to early summer, making it one of several attractive ornamental laurel trees for landscaping
-
Propagation: Bay laurel can be planted either as a cutting or by purchasing a young potted tree, with cuttings being the preferred method due to faster growth
Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a half-hardy perennial that can grow into a sizable tree, reaching heights of up to 60 feet in its native Mediterranean climate, but is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below. In California gardens, bay laurel is an excellent condition-friendly choice for many coastal, foothill, and inland areas where drainage is strong and winter cold is not extreme, especially if you’re looking for a convenient plant nursery to supply your yard.
Bay leaves are used in cooking, dried leaves can be stored for later, and ground bay leaves are sometimes discussed for wellness use. The plant’s essential oils are also valued in traditional aromatic applications, including massage therapy products, though Yardwork’s bay laurel plants are intended for garden, patio, and culinary use, alongside other versatile options like English Laurel for hedging and structure.
Who Bay Laurel Is For
Ideal for:
-
Home cooks who love Mediterranean cuisines, French cooking, Italian sauces, Spanish stews, Creole dishes, and slow-simmered soups
-
Gardeners who want a fresh bay leaf supply instead of repeatedly buying dried bay leaves from stores
-
Container gardeners with limited space, patios, balconies, or a sunny front door location
-
California homeowners who want an evergreen tree or shrub that looks elegant and works hard
-
Landscape enthusiasts looking for low-maintenance structure, a formal topiary, or a privacy hedge, and who may also be considering other structural shrubs like Carrotwood or compact boxwood options or native choices such as Toyon for California-friendly hedging
-
Herb garden growers who want a long-lived culinary herb with aromatic leaves and year-round usefulness
If you want fresh flavor, evergreen structure, and a plant that can be pruned to fit your space, bay laurel fits beautifully. It gives you bay leaves for cooking, glossy green foliage for the garden, and a durable laurel presence that improves with age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow bay laurel in containers?
Yes. Bay laurel is one of the best container plants for cooks and patio gardeners. Use a well drained potting mix, place the container in full sun or partial shade, and move the plant indoors or to a protected spot during hard freezes. Container growing is especially useful in USDA Zones 7 and below.
How long before I can harvest leaves?
Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use. Young potted trees may provide light harvests once they are established, but the best bay laurel leaves usually come from older, darker green growth. Harvest whole leaves as needed, then remove bay leaves before serving cooked dishes.
Will bay laurel survive California winters?
In many parts of California, yes. Bay laurel thrives outdoors in USDA zones 8-10, especially where soil is well drained and the plant has full sun to partial shade. In colder inland or mountain areas, grow bay laurel in containers so it can be brought indoors or moved to a sheltered microclimate during cold snaps.
Is bay laurel the same as California bay?
No. True culinary bay laurel is Laurus nobilis. California bay is a different species with a much stronger, more camphorous flavor. Yardwork’s bay laurel is selected for the classic sweet bay flavor used in Mediterranean cooking.
How should I use bay leaves in cooking?
Use whole leaves fresh or dried to add flavor to soups, sauces, beans, meats, stews, and braises. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving.
Ready to Add Fresh Bay Leaves to Your Garden?
Choose Bay Laurel from Yardwork and grow a long-term culinary investment that brings fresh aroma, evergreen beauty, and practical harvests to your garden, patio, or herb garden.
Yardwork delivers healthy, nursery-grown plants selected for strong roots, reliable growth, and arrival in excellent condition, making it easier to establish your own laurus nobilis bay laurel at home.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
You may also like...
Bay Laurel - Laurus Nobilis
Regular price
$55.00
Size
Transform Your Garden into a Culinary Paradise
Bay Laurel gives you fresh, aromatic leaves for year-round cooking, so you can step outside, harvest a bay leaf, and add deep, savory flavor to soups, stews, sauces, meats, and baked dishes without relying on tired store-bought dried leaves.
Also known as sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, bay tree, and laurus nobilis bay laurel, this evergreen tree brings together the usefulness of a culinary herb and the structure of a refined garden plant. Keep it as a small tree near the front door, shape it as a patio topiary, or grow it in containers for fresh or dried bay leaves whenever your kitchen needs them.
Why You’ll Love Bay Laurel
-
Fresh Culinary Leaves – Harvest aromatic leaves year-round from mature bay laurel trees for culinary or medicinal use, especially in soups, stews, Mediterranean cuisines, sauces, meats, and baked dishes.
-
Low-Maintenance Evergreen – Bay laurel thrives with minimal care once established in USDA zones 8-10, and bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant when watered only after the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
-
Elegant Garden Feature – Glossy dark green leaves and evergreen leaves add year-round structure, while regular pruning lets you shape this laurel tree into a topiary, privacy hedge, large shrub, or compact small tree.
-
Container-Friendly – An excellent choice for patios, herb garden designs, and container plants, especially where cold weather means the plant should be brought indoors for winter protection, and easily available when you shop Bay Laurel plants online.
-
Long-Lived Investment – Bay laurel is slow growing, grows slowly at a manageable pace, and can live for decades, giving your garden steady growth, useful branches, and reliable bay laurel leaves season after season, much like other mature trees for instant landscape impact.
Bay leaves provide a deep flavor in dishes that can’t be found in other herbs, making them a staple in many recipes for soups, stews, and baked dishes. Bay leaves have a sweet and heady aroma, adding a savory flavor with a spicy nutmeg note, and they taste more pungent when used fresh.
What Makes Bay Laurel Different
Most herbs are annual, short-lived, or die back when the season changes. Bay Laurel is different: it is a half-hardy perennial, an evergreen tree in the laurel family, and a productive culinary herb you can keep for years with the right soil type, sun exposure, and pruning.
-
Perennial Harvest – Unlike annual herbs, laurus nobilis provides fresh bay leaves every season without replanting, and the leaves can be harvested year round once the plant is mature.
-
Superior Flavor – Fresh bay leaves offer a more complex, aromatic flavor than many dried leaves from the store, with the pungent lift that makes bay so valuable in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes.
-
Dual-Purpose Plant – This tree works as both an ornamental evergreen and a productive culinary herb, adding green structure to the garden while giving you whole leaves for cooking, similar to many evergreen privacy and fast-growing trees.
Bay leaves are commonly used in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes, especially in sauces, soups, and meats, and are often included in a Bouquet Garni. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving, which makes whole leaves especially practical for everyday cooking.
Bay laurel also has a long history. Native to the Mediterranean basin and known from ancient Greece, laurel was associated with honor, protection, and even folklore about lightning strikes. Today, true laurel remains prized because laurus nobilis has a balanced flavor compared with stronger bay substitutes and stands out among many popular landscape trees for home gardens.
How Bay Laurel Works in Your Garden
-
Plant and Establish
Place bay laurel in well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade exposure. Bay laurel requires well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade for successful growth, whether planted in the ground or grown in containers on a patio. -
Grow and Shape
Prune bay laurel trees anytime in late spring or summer to maintain size and promote bushiness and healthy growth. Regular pruning and shaping are necessary to keep bay laurel manageable, especially when grown in a container, and it can be shaped into a topiary or used as a privacy hedge. -
Harvest and Enjoy
Pick mature dark green leaves as needed for fresh cooking or drying. Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use, and mature leaves are the most flavorful choice for soups stews, sauces, and slow-cooked meals.
For wellness-minded gardeners, bay laurel leaves provide prominent digestive and antioxidant health benefits. Bay leaf tea is traditionally used to soothe upset stomachs, reduce bloating, and calm intestinal cramps. Active enzymes in bay laurel can help break down complex proteins and calm gastrointestinal issues.
The medicinal attributes of bay laurel stem from its concentration of active plant compounds like tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils like eugenol. Some studies suggest that consuming ground bay leaves may improve insulin function and lower serum glucose and cholesterol levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. If using ground bay leaves or bay leaf preparations medicinally, use only true culinary Laurus nobilis and speak with a healthcare professional for personal guidance.
Plant Details
-
Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
-
Common Names: Bay laurel, bay tree, sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, laurel tree
-
Plant Type: Evergreen tree, large shrub, half-hardy perennial, culinary herb
-
Family: Laurel family
-
Native Range: Mediterranean basin
-
Mature Size: 6-60 feet tall depending on growing conditions, pruning, and whether it is planted in the ground or kept as a container plant
-
Hardiness: Best outdoors in USDA zones 8-10; bay laurel is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below so it can be brought indoors during cold weather
-
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; slow growth makes it easier to maintain as a patio plant, hedge, or small tree
-
Light: Full sun to partial shade
-
Soil: Well drained soil is essential; avoid soggy ground
-
Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; established bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant
-
Container Recommendation: Start with a roomy container and increase pot size as the roots and shoots develop
-
Pruning: Prune in late spring or summer to manage height, encourage healthy growth, and create bushier branches
-
Harvest: Mature bay laurel leaves may be used fresh or dried; whole leaves should be removed before serving
-
Flowers and Fruit: Bay laurel has male and female trees; female trees may produce fruit if a compatible male tree is nearby for pollination, with small blossoms appearing in spring to early summer, making it one of several attractive ornamental laurel trees for landscaping
-
Propagation: Bay laurel can be planted either as a cutting or by purchasing a young potted tree, with cuttings being the preferred method due to faster growth
Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a half-hardy perennial that can grow into a sizable tree, reaching heights of up to 60 feet in its native Mediterranean climate, but is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below. In California gardens, bay laurel is an excellent condition-friendly choice for many coastal, foothill, and inland areas where drainage is strong and winter cold is not extreme, especially if you’re looking for a convenient plant nursery to supply your yard.
Bay leaves are used in cooking, dried leaves can be stored for later, and ground bay leaves are sometimes discussed for wellness use. The plant’s essential oils are also valued in traditional aromatic applications, including massage therapy products, though Yardwork’s bay laurel plants are intended for garden, patio, and culinary use, alongside other versatile options like English Laurel for hedging and structure.
Who Bay Laurel Is For
Ideal for:
-
Home cooks who love Mediterranean cuisines, French cooking, Italian sauces, Spanish stews, Creole dishes, and slow-simmered soups
-
Gardeners who want a fresh bay leaf supply instead of repeatedly buying dried bay leaves from stores
-
Container gardeners with limited space, patios, balconies, or a sunny front door location
-
California homeowners who want an evergreen tree or shrub that looks elegant and works hard
-
Landscape enthusiasts looking for low-maintenance structure, a formal topiary, or a privacy hedge, and who may also be considering other structural shrubs like Carrotwood or compact boxwood options or native choices such as Toyon for California-friendly hedging
-
Herb garden growers who want a long-lived culinary herb with aromatic leaves and year-round usefulness
If you want fresh flavor, evergreen structure, and a plant that can be pruned to fit your space, bay laurel fits beautifully. It gives you bay leaves for cooking, glossy green foliage for the garden, and a durable laurel presence that improves with age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow bay laurel in containers?
Yes. Bay laurel is one of the best container plants for cooks and patio gardeners. Use a well drained potting mix, place the container in full sun or partial shade, and move the plant indoors or to a protected spot during hard freezes. Container growing is especially useful in USDA Zones 7 and below.
How long before I can harvest leaves?
Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use. Young potted trees may provide light harvests once they are established, but the best bay laurel leaves usually come from older, darker green growth. Harvest whole leaves as needed, then remove bay leaves before serving cooked dishes.
Will bay laurel survive California winters?
In many parts of California, yes. Bay laurel thrives outdoors in USDA zones 8-10, especially where soil is well drained and the plant has full sun to partial shade. In colder inland or mountain areas, grow bay laurel in containers so it can be brought indoors or moved to a sheltered microclimate during cold snaps.
Is bay laurel the same as California bay?
No. True culinary bay laurel is Laurus nobilis. California bay is a different species with a much stronger, more camphorous flavor. Yardwork’s bay laurel is selected for the classic sweet bay flavor used in Mediterranean cooking.
How should I use bay leaves in cooking?
Use whole leaves fresh or dried to add flavor to soups, sauces, beans, meats, stews, and braises. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving.
Ready to Add Fresh Bay Leaves to Your Garden?
Choose Bay Laurel from Yardwork and grow a long-term culinary investment that brings fresh aroma, evergreen beauty, and practical harvests to your garden, patio, or herb garden.
Yardwork delivers healthy, nursery-grown plants selected for strong roots, reliable growth, and arrival in excellent condition, making it easier to establish your own laurus nobilis bay laurel at home.
Transform Your Garden into a Culinary Paradise
Bay Laurel gives you fresh, aromatic leaves for year-round cooking, so you can step outside, harvest a bay leaf, and add deep, savory flavor to soups, stews, sauces, meats, and baked dishes without relying on tired store-bought dried leaves.
Also known as sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, bay tree, and laurus nobilis bay laurel, this evergreen tree brings together the usefulness of a culinary herb and the structure of a refined garden plant. Keep it as a small tree near the front door, shape it as a patio topiary, or grow it in containers for fresh or dried bay leaves whenever your kitchen needs them.
Why You’ll Love Bay Laurel
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Fresh Culinary Leaves – Harvest aromatic leaves year-round from mature bay laurel trees for culinary or medicinal use, especially in soups, stews, Mediterranean cuisines, sauces, meats, and baked dishes.
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Low-Maintenance Evergreen – Bay laurel thrives with minimal care once established in USDA zones 8-10, and bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant when watered only after the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry.
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Elegant Garden Feature – Glossy dark green leaves and evergreen leaves add year-round structure, while regular pruning lets you shape this laurel tree into a topiary, privacy hedge, large shrub, or compact small tree.
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Container-Friendly – An excellent choice for patios, herb garden designs, and container plants, especially where cold weather means the plant should be brought indoors for winter protection, and easily available when you shop Bay Laurel plants online.
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Long-Lived Investment – Bay laurel is slow growing, grows slowly at a manageable pace, and can live for decades, giving your garden steady growth, useful branches, and reliable bay laurel leaves season after season, much like other mature trees for instant landscape impact.
Bay leaves provide a deep flavor in dishes that can’t be found in other herbs, making them a staple in many recipes for soups, stews, and baked dishes. Bay leaves have a sweet and heady aroma, adding a savory flavor with a spicy nutmeg note, and they taste more pungent when used fresh.
What Makes Bay Laurel Different
Most herbs are annual, short-lived, or die back when the season changes. Bay Laurel is different: it is a half-hardy perennial, an evergreen tree in the laurel family, and a productive culinary herb you can keep for years with the right soil type, sun exposure, and pruning.
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Perennial Harvest – Unlike annual herbs, laurus nobilis provides fresh bay leaves every season without replanting, and the leaves can be harvested year round once the plant is mature.
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Superior Flavor – Fresh bay leaves offer a more complex, aromatic flavor than many dried leaves from the store, with the pungent lift that makes bay so valuable in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes.
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Dual-Purpose Plant – This tree works as both an ornamental evergreen and a productive culinary herb, adding green structure to the garden while giving you whole leaves for cooking, similar to many evergreen privacy and fast-growing trees.
Bay leaves are commonly used in French, Italian, Spanish, and Creole dishes, especially in sauces, soups, and meats, and are often included in a Bouquet Garni. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving, which makes whole leaves especially practical for everyday cooking.
Bay laurel also has a long history. Native to the Mediterranean basin and known from ancient Greece, laurel was associated with honor, protection, and even folklore about lightning strikes. Today, true laurel remains prized because laurus nobilis has a balanced flavor compared with stronger bay substitutes and stands out among many popular landscape trees for home gardens.
How Bay Laurel Works in Your Garden
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Plant and Establish
Place bay laurel in well-draining soil with full sun to partial shade exposure. Bay laurel requires well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade for successful growth, whether planted in the ground or grown in containers on a patio. -
Grow and Shape
Prune bay laurel trees anytime in late spring or summer to maintain size and promote bushiness and healthy growth. Regular pruning and shaping are necessary to keep bay laurel manageable, especially when grown in a container, and it can be shaped into a topiary or used as a privacy hedge. -
Harvest and Enjoy
Pick mature dark green leaves as needed for fresh cooking or drying. Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use, and mature leaves are the most flavorful choice for soups stews, sauces, and slow-cooked meals.
For wellness-minded gardeners, bay laurel leaves provide prominent digestive and antioxidant health benefits. Bay leaf tea is traditionally used to soothe upset stomachs, reduce bloating, and calm intestinal cramps. Active enzymes in bay laurel can help break down complex proteins and calm gastrointestinal issues.
The medicinal attributes of bay laurel stem from its concentration of active plant compounds like tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils like eugenol. Some studies suggest that consuming ground bay leaves may improve insulin function and lower serum glucose and cholesterol levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. If using ground bay leaves or bay leaf preparations medicinally, use only true culinary Laurus nobilis and speak with a healthcare professional for personal guidance.
Plant Details
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Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
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Common Names: Bay laurel, bay tree, sweet bay, grecian laurel, true laurel, laurel tree
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Plant Type: Evergreen tree, large shrub, half-hardy perennial, culinary herb
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Family: Laurel family
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Native Range: Mediterranean basin
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Mature Size: 6-60 feet tall depending on growing conditions, pruning, and whether it is planted in the ground or kept as a container plant
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Hardiness: Best outdoors in USDA zones 8-10; bay laurel is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below so it can be brought indoors during cold weather
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Growth Rate: Slow to moderate; slow growth makes it easier to maintain as a patio plant, hedge, or small tree
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Light: Full sun to partial shade
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Soil: Well drained soil is essential; avoid soggy ground
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Water: Water when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; established bay laurel trees are relatively drought-tolerant
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Container Recommendation: Start with a roomy container and increase pot size as the roots and shoots develop
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Pruning: Prune in late spring or summer to manage height, encourage healthy growth, and create bushier branches
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Harvest: Mature bay laurel leaves may be used fresh or dried; whole leaves should be removed before serving
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Flowers and Fruit: Bay laurel has male and female trees; female trees may produce fruit if a compatible male tree is nearby for pollination, with small blossoms appearing in spring to early summer, making it one of several attractive ornamental laurel trees for landscaping
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Propagation: Bay laurel can be planted either as a cutting or by purchasing a young potted tree, with cuttings being the preferred method due to faster growth
Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a half-hardy perennial that can grow into a sizable tree, reaching heights of up to 60 feet in its native Mediterranean climate, but is typically grown in containers in USDA Zones 7 and below. In California gardens, bay laurel is an excellent condition-friendly choice for many coastal, foothill, and inland areas where drainage is strong and winter cold is not extreme, especially if you’re looking for a convenient plant nursery to supply your yard.
Bay leaves are used in cooking, dried leaves can be stored for later, and ground bay leaves are sometimes discussed for wellness use. The plant’s essential oils are also valued in traditional aromatic applications, including massage therapy products, though Yardwork’s bay laurel plants are intended for garden, patio, and culinary use, alongside other versatile options like English Laurel for hedging and structure.
Who Bay Laurel Is For
Ideal for:
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Home cooks who love Mediterranean cuisines, French cooking, Italian sauces, Spanish stews, Creole dishes, and slow-simmered soups
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Gardeners who want a fresh bay leaf supply instead of repeatedly buying dried bay leaves from stores
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Container gardeners with limited space, patios, balconies, or a sunny front door location
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California homeowners who want an evergreen tree or shrub that looks elegant and works hard
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Landscape enthusiasts looking for low-maintenance structure, a formal topiary, or a privacy hedge, and who may also be considering other structural shrubs like Carrotwood or compact boxwood options or native choices such as Toyon for California-friendly hedging
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Herb garden growers who want a long-lived culinary herb with aromatic leaves and year-round usefulness
If you want fresh flavor, evergreen structure, and a plant that can be pruned to fit your space, bay laurel fits beautifully. It gives you bay leaves for cooking, glossy green foliage for the garden, and a durable laurel presence that improves with age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I grow bay laurel in containers?
Yes. Bay laurel is one of the best container plants for cooks and patio gardeners. Use a well drained potting mix, place the container in full sun or partial shade, and move the plant indoors or to a protected spot during hard freezes. Container growing is especially useful in USDA Zones 7 and below.
How long before I can harvest leaves?
Leaves from mature bay laurel trees can be harvested for culinary or medicinal use. Young potted trees may provide light harvests once they are established, but the best bay laurel leaves usually come from older, darker green growth. Harvest whole leaves as needed, then remove bay leaves before serving cooked dishes.
Will bay laurel survive California winters?
In many parts of California, yes. Bay laurel thrives outdoors in USDA zones 8-10, especially where soil is well drained and the plant has full sun to partial shade. In colder inland or mountain areas, grow bay laurel in containers so it can be brought indoors or moved to a sheltered microclimate during cold snaps.
Is bay laurel the same as California bay?
No. True culinary bay laurel is Laurus nobilis. California bay is a different species with a much stronger, more camphorous flavor. Yardwork’s bay laurel is selected for the classic sweet bay flavor used in Mediterranean cooking.
How should I use bay leaves in cooking?
Use whole leaves fresh or dried to add flavor to soups, sauces, beans, meats, stews, and braises. Bay leaves do not soften during cooking and must be removed before serving.
Ready to Add Fresh Bay Leaves to Your Garden?
Choose Bay Laurel from Yardwork and grow a long-term culinary investment that brings fresh aroma, evergreen beauty, and practical harvests to your garden, patio, or herb garden.
Yardwork delivers healthy, nursery-grown plants selected for strong roots, reliable growth, and arrival in excellent condition, making it easier to establish your own laurus nobilis bay laurel at home.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Plants vary greatly by type and no guarantees are made on sizing.
However here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
48" Box Tree 10-12 Ft. Tall
Please note: Citrus and California Native plants such as Manzanita are smaller than traditional sizing.
Please contact us to confirm sizing of items before purchasing if this is a concern.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants larger than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside.
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes larger than a 24" box size will require equipment and an operator onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee.
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Thousands of Healthy Plants Delivered
Yardwork was so great to work with. First they had the Swan Hill olive trees that we had been searching for, we had contacted several other nurseries without any luck previously. Then they answered all of our questions in a timely matter prior to ordering and finally delivered within a few days of placing it. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable; they delivered and planted our trees with expertise to ensure that they would do well in our yard. We would definitely work with them again for future projects.
A Modern Experience
At Yardwork, we carefully curate thousands of plants, in all container sizes, to provide you with the best selection of the highest quality trees and plants at the best price, with the convenience of an online platform.
Uncompromised Quality
We choose only the finest specimens and hand select our plants just before delivery to ensure you receive the freshest and most robust specimens available for your landscape.
Industry Leading Warranties
Our 30, 90, and 365 extended warranties provide some of the best coverage to ensure our trees and plants thrive in your landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
We're committed to changing everything about trees and plants - how they’re grown, how you shop for them, and how much they cost. We handle orders ourselves. No middlemen to get between us (or our prices) and you.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
Delivery does not include unloading of trees and plants LARGER than a 24" box.
Trees and plants in smaller containers will be dropped curbside (usually on the driveway or near the front doorstep).
Delivery beyond a curbside drop will be charged extra.
Trees and plants that are sold in container sizes LARGER than a 24" box size will require equipment and/or enough manpower onsite to help unload from the truck.
Please reach out to our team PRIOR to placing your order to help coordinate.
Our team can provide unloading assistance with equipment for an extra fee as well.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We ship locally within California within 7-10 days of your order being placed.
We ship nationally using carrier partners, based on order size. Our common order minimums for out of state shipping is $5,000.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for specific shipping details for your location.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
We are currently online only and don't have physical locations where you can view plants in person.
That's why we have photos direct from the growing grounds of the plants we will ship and we display pricing right in our store.
We do make sure to pick the very best trees and plants prior to shipping and make sure that they have gone through our multi-point inspection for health and structure.
We will always reach out prior to delivery if we find a quality issue or need to provide a substitute.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
Plants vary greatly by type. Here is a rough idea of sizes based on containers that are direct from our growing grounds.
15 Gallon Shrub 3-4 Ft. Tall
15 Gallon Tree 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Shrub 5-6 Ft. Tall
24" Box Tree 6-7 Ft. Tall
36" Box Shrub/Tree 7-9 Ft. Tall
48" Box Shrub/Tree 8-10 Ft. Tall
**Please note that we do not make guarantees of sizes. If you have questions or concerns, please call or text to request accurate sizing for the particular plant you're considering, prior to ordering.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
We offer a limited 30 day warranty for plants that are delivered and planted by someone else and a 90 day warranty for plants that we plant.
The limited warranty covers plants that die as a result of disease or fungus which was derived from our growing grounds or from root balls that were root bound.
The warranty does not cover damage due to watering, fertilizer, soils, or any other conditions beyond our control. Additionally, the warranty does not cover plants that are shipped out of the state of California or shipped into California from other states. Custom plant orders are also not covered under warranty. Plants must be planted within 24 hours after delivery to qualify.
We can assist you in recommending the right soils and fertilizers to help your plant thrive after you plant it.
Text or call 323-576-4159 for further warranty information.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.
Our local delivery team covers most cities in California.
There are some exceptions, so please get in touch to confirm prior to ordering.
Additionally, we ship using semi trucks and trailers throughout the entire United States and even abroad for large orders over $5,000. Each shipment is custom, so please reach out to our team to coordinate.