Herbs > Bay Herb

Information on, uses of and how to grow bay:

Name
Laurus nobilis

Family
Lauraceae.

History
Bay was the laurel used in the wreaths with which the ancient Romans and Greeks crowned their athletes and heroes.

Growing pattern
Perennial evergreen tree.

Seeds
Buy Herb Seeds (Organic and Non-Organic) from The Green Chronicle (Pay in £, $US, Euro).
Herbs, Seasonings, Seeds and Spices - Buy Bay leaf from Mountain Rose Herbs ($US).

How to grow
You would have to buy a small tree. Once established cuttings can be taken from side shoots in late summer. The leaves can be picket throughout the year.Soil condition/position: The Bay likes a sunny place. If the winters are known to be hard the tree should be pot grown and brought in. For container growing it can be kept clipped right back to a suitable size.

Appearance
The tree can grow to 40 feet. Its leaves are shiny and dark green, the flowers light yellow and the fruit purple.

Uses
Bay leaves are a component of bouquet garni. Use the leaves in soups and marinade mixes. Add to dry rice to impart its spicy flavour and to meat and vegetable dishes.