Bay leaves are also commonly known as Laurel leaves or Sweet Bay leaves.

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Bay Leaves are also commonly known as Laurel leaves. The leaves are not edible in the dried form, but are used in a wide variety of culinary dishes to lend its distinct aroma and flavor. It also is commonly used for alternative medicine preparations, especially during the ancient times.

Description

The leaves are the medium sized green leaves of the evergreen perennial Bay tree plant. The tree can grow up to a height of 40 feet, but if grown in a container, will stay small. The bark of the Bay tree is grey. The flowers of the Bay tree are small and yellow. The fruit of the Bay tree is round, small, purple berries.

The herb has a distinct aromatic property. The herb leaves are commonly presented in the dried form. There are many different kinds of Bay trees, but for culinary purposes, it is the Laurus Nobilis that is used.

Growing Requirements

Bay trees can be planted indoors or outdoors. It will do well in full sun or partial sun. The plant will thrive in nutrient rich soil that has good drainage properties. Make sure to fertilize this plant regularly.

Bay trees are not winter hardy. During a cold spell, if it is possible, take the tree plant indoors or cover with hardware fleece. Young plants that are outside need an additional layer of mulch.

If the Bay tree is to be planted outdoors, there should be enough space for the roots to grow. It is not advisable to plant this near any other plant or near structures.

Dig a hole around a meter deep to place in the sapling. Cover loosely with soil and make sure to water regularly, especially during the first year. It is possible to prune the Bay plant when the foliage gets dense. You can make it into a landscaping attraction by forming it into topiary. If the Bay tree is to be grown in a container, whether it be for indoors or outdoors, make sure that the container is large enough to accommodate a tree that is 5 feet high. The growing requirements remain the same as that of the outdoor plant, though it is possible that you would have to water less often.

Harvesting Bay Leaves

After the Bay tree has been growing for a couple of years, the leaves are ready to harvest. Cut off the leaves with a pair of pruning shears, leaving about 2 cm of the stem attachment. Choose the larger and older leaves that have no tears or whole. Wash well and dry them.

Bay Leaves can be dried by place them on a screen and placing them under the sun for two to three days. Make sure that the leaves are not touching each other. The bay herb leaves are dried when they are can get crushed easily.