Laurus nobilis, commonly know as Sweet Bay, Cooking Bay, and Laurel, is the Laurel of Classical Europe. It was used as a crown, an aromatic but most importantly it has been used as a flavoring in the cuisine of the Mediterranean world for thousands of years. The tree grows to about 30 ft., has aromatic dark green leaves, greenish yellow flowers and black berries.

It can take mild frost and will usually recover from the root if killed by a hard freeze. North of zone 7, it must be grown in a large pot and kept indoors during winter months. It prefers to grow in moist acidic soil with leaf mold, but must have good drainage and must not stand in soaking wet soil. It can withstand severe pruning and grows well in tubs on steps, terraces, patios and decks.

Winter hardy in sones 7-10.