Herb
Bay Laurel
Laurus nobilis
Monrovia® varieties
Varieties We Carry
Little RaguLaurus nobilisStandardLaurus nobilisNobilisLaurus nobilisMonrovia
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$24.95
#2MonroviaFrom$59.95
3 galFrom$24.95
7" TERRA COTTAMonroviaFrom$59.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Jun 19.
LightFull Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size10-20 feet × 4-8 feet (zone 9b typical size)
About Bay Laurel
Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an aromatic evergreen tree or large shrub native to the Mediterranean, with leathery, lance-shaped leaves used as a classic culinary herb. Small yellow flowers give way to dark berries in fall, and the plant is often trained as a formal topiary or standard. Starting at $24.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Spring
- Flower Color
- Yellow
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Sandy, Loam, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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Seasonal care
Bloom season. Good planting window.
Active growing season.
Ideal planting window.
Retains foliage through winter. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Light
Bay Laurel grows in full sun to part shade; in NE Florida's hot summers, afternoon shade reduces heat stress and maintains better foliage color. Provide at least 4–6 hours of direct sun daily for compact, bushy growth.
Water
Water regularly to maintain evenly moist (not wet) soil; allow the top 1–2 inches to dry between waterings. Bay Laurel is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions — NE Florida's well-drained sandy soil is beneficial as long as consistent moisture is maintained.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in well-drained, fertile soil at pH 6.0–7.0. Amend sandy NE Florida soil with compost at planting. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring; Bay Laurel is a light feeder and excess fertilization promotes rank, weak growth.
Similar needs
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Periwinkle
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Common questions
Is Bay Laurel a good plant for St. Augustine?
Bay Laurel is a herb for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 10-20 feet × 4-8 feet (zone 9b typical size).
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.