Sweet Bay, Grecian Laurel
SIZE: Medium (Height 15-25'; Spread 15-20').
GROWTH RATE: Slow.
FOLIAGE: Dark green, smooth, elliptic leaves, 2-4" long.
FLOWER/FRUIT/BARK: Small, yellow spring flowers in clusters. Male trees have no fruit; female trees have purple-black berries, 1/4" across, which form in fall and drop in winter. Smooth, light gray bark darkens with age.
MONTHLY WATERING NEEDS: 15-20 gallons per week for the first 2 years; 15-20 gallons twice a month for the 3rd year; as needed after 3 years (varies by soil, sun, and wind conditions).
TREE CARE: High. Early pruning needed to train a good shape; pruning needed less frequently with age. Requires removal of suckers. Can require pest control.
TOLERANCES: Drought (once established), sandy or rocky soil, salt air, gusty or cold winds, smog, temperature extremes.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Prefers sun and needs good drainage. Prone to suckering; big root crown; susceptible to thrips, psyllids, insects, aphids, scale, mealybugs, and powdery mildew in San Francisco. Minimum 4x4' basin encouraged.
NOTABLE TRAITS: The aromatic, dried leaves can be used in cooking as a seasoning. Attracts birds.
ALTERNATE FORM: L. nobilis 'Saratoga' has broader and rounder, olive-green leaves and grows more quickly. Susceptible to many pests, but resistant to psyllid.