What is laurel (Laurus nobilis)?
Laurel It is an aromatic evergreen plant native to the Mediterranean region and widely cultivated in gardens, orchards, and urban areas due to its hardiness, ornamental value, and, above all, its multiple culinary and medicinal applications. Bay leaves belong to the Lauraceae family and their scientific name, Laurus nobilis, refers to its ancient reputation for nobility and excellence—a symbol of glory and victory dating back to Greek and Roman culture. Furthermore, the term "laurear" means to reward or award, illustrating the symbolic role of this species throughout history.
Ancient Greek legend tells that the laurel tree was sacred to the god Apollo, protector of the arts and wisdom. In Rome, it was the plant of victors, a symbol of glory and triumph. This is why expressions like "rest on one's laurels" or "laurel wreath" have been perpetuated.
Botanical characteristics of laurel
The laurel is presented as a slow-growing shrub or small tree, which can reach a height of 5 to 10 meters if grown under optimal conditions, although it generally does not exceed 6 meters in cultivation. Its trunk is straight, smooth, and grayish in color, while the crown is dense and dark, casting a refreshing and compact shade.
- Sheets: Persistent throughout the year, leathery, a deep, glossy green on the upper surface, somewhat paler on the underside. They measure between 3 and 15 cm long and have a lanceolate, oval, and pointed shape. The leaves have entire, sometimes slightly wavy edges. They are rich in essential oils, which gives them their characteristic intense aromaTo learn more about their care, consult our complete guide to bay leaves.
- Flowers: They appear in spring, grouped in sessile umbels of 4-6 flowers per cluster. They are small, yellowish, with four petals and are not very conspicuous. The laurel is dioecious, which means that there are male and female feet.
- Fruits: After flowering, only female plants produce fruit, which are black berries or ovoids (drupes) when ripe and measure between 10 and 15 mm. They contain a single, smooth, inedible seed.
This tree can adapt to different conditions, but grows best in cool, light soils, tolerates pruning very well, and is drought-tolerant, although it cannot withstand prolonged intense frosts.
Habitat and cultivation of laurel
The laurel is typical of the Mediterranean climate, but it can adapt to other temperate regions thanks to its hardiness. It prefers sunny or semi-shaded locations, although it can tolerate shade. Its versatility makes it ideal for both gardens, where it can form hedges, and for growing in pots on patios and terraces. For more information on its cultivation, check out our article. All about the bay tree and its uses at home.
It only requires one well-draining substrate, fertile, and fresh. Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially if grown in a pot. It's important to protect it from severe frost, which can damage the leaves and young branches. It also responds well to pruning, allowing for various ornamental shapes (topiary art) and even tolerates severe pruning.
Propagation and multiplication
There are two main methods for multiplying bay leaves:
- By seeds: After the fruits ripen in autumn, the seeds can be collected for sowing. This is a somewhat slow process and requires collecting seeds from both male and female plants. Germination rates are improved with mechanical scarification and cold stratification for several weeks. For more details, see the section on multiplication of laurel by seeds.
- By cuttings: A much faster and more effective method. In late summer or early fall, you can cut semi-woody cuttings, which root easily if planted in moist, protected soil. To learn how, visit our article. How to use bay leaves for propagation.
The bay tree tolerates pruning well: it is recommended to do it in mid-spring and late summer, using the cuttings as future cuttings if you want to multiply the plant.
Pests, diseases and common problems
Although it is a fairly robust species, The laurel can be attacked by some pests and diseases:
- Mealybugs: They are the main problem. They produce a molasses that harbors sooty mold, which blackens and disfigures the leaves, although it rarely kills the plant.
- Sila (Trioza alacris): This sucking insect causes wrinkles on the leaves, which appear deformed and may have spots. To learn how to combat it, check out our article. uses of laurel as an insecticide.
- Aphids: They suck the sap from tender shoots.
- Powdery mildew: fungus that can attack in closed or humid environments.
For prevention, it is recommended to treat with specific products, keep the plant ventilated and avoid excess humidity.
Culinary uses of bay leaves
Bay leaf is one of the most widely used spices in Mediterranean and European cuisine.Its leaves, both fresh and dried, are used to flavor:
- Soups, stews and casseroles
- Meats, fish and shellfish
- Sauces, rice and legumes
- Pickles and broths
- In some desserts, such as rice pudding
The leaves are usually added whole and removed before serving, as their texture is leathery. They can also be crushed to enhance the flavor. The berries, although less frequently used, can be used in garnishes and in the preparation of liqueurs such as Laurino, typical of the Emilia Romagna region of Italy. For more recipes, check out the use of bay leaves in food.
Medicinal properties and traditional applications
Laurel has been used since ancient times as a natural remedy and medicinal plant. Its main properties include:
- Stomach tonic: stimulates the appetite and promotes good digestion.
- Carminative: helps eliminate intestinal gas.
- Expectorant and antimicrobial: useful in infusions to relieve colds and mild respiratory problems.
- Anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant: Bay essential oil, obtained from the fruits, is used in balms and creams to relieve inflammation, joint and muscle pain.
- Diuretic and cholagogue: It promotes the elimination of liquids and stimulates the production of bile.
This essential oil is also known as "bay butter" and has been traditionally used to combat inflammation, treat head lice, and as an ingredient in cosmetic products (soaps, creams, gels). For more details, check out our article. aromatic plants beneficial to healthHowever, excessive ingestion of bay leaves or preparations can cause toxicity, so it should always be used in moderation.
Is bay leaf toxic?
When used correctly in cooking, bay leaf is non-toxic. It's important not to overuse it, as large doses can irritate the digestive system, and in some cases, its shoots contain cyanide precursors. The leaves and fruits should not be eaten raw or in large quantities.
Furthermore, a distinction must be made between Laurus nobilis and other species commonly known as laurel, but which are dangerous or even deadly, such as:
- Cherry laurel or royal laurel (Prunus laurocerasus): toxic.
- Oleander (nerium oleander): extremely toxic.
Exceptional cases of contact dermatitis have been reported after topical application of bay essential oil, but these are very rare.
Cultural and symbolic importance of the laurel
The laurel tree was a key symbol in Greco-Roman culture. The Greeks dedicated the plant to the god Apollo, and, according to mythology, the nymph Daphne transformed herself into a laurel tree to escape him; thus, the laurel became an emblem of poetry, triumph, and wisdom. The winners of the Pythian Games were crowned with laurel leaves, and in Rome, these crowns were used to honor emperors, poets, and military heroes.
This symbolism has endured to the present day, as reflected in expressions such as "to be laureate" or "to rest on one's laurels." The word "bachelor" comes from the Latin baccalaureatus, which includes the term "laureatus" referring to the laurels of the academic title.
Numerous writers and poets have cited the laurel in their works, from Cervantes to Calderón de la Barca and Quevedo, extolling its beauty, nobility and symbolic value.
Ornamental and gardening uses
Laurel is widely used in gardening due to its resistance, evergreen foliage and ability to adapt to pruning:
- It is part of hedges and screens due to its leafiness and tolerance to pruning.
- It is grown in pots for patios and terraces
- In some gardens, it is used in topiary to obtain artistic forms.
- It produces dense shade and can be used as a solitary plant or in a group.
Laurel wood is hard and durable, traditionally used in marquetry and cabinetmaking in certain regions.
Varieties and common names of bay laurel
Although Laurus nobilis It is the best known and most used laurel, in different areas of the world there are species that receive the same common name, such as:
- cinnamomum tamala (Indian bay)
- umbellularia californica (Californian laurel)
- Laurelia sempervirens (Chilean laurel)
In Spanish, there are numerous popular names for laurel: Apollo's laurel, royal laurel, lauro, llaurer, loureiro, among others.
Curiosities and literature
There are numerous literary and artistic references to the laurel:
- Miguel de Cervantes mentions the laurel as a crown for poets and a symbol of honor in El Quijote.
- Calderón de la Barca cites it as an emblem of courage and nobility in his verses.
- Quevedo uses laurel in his Funeral song as an example of beauty and pride.
- In popular culture, phrases like “lightning does not offend” allude to its supposed invulnerability.
Furthermore, bay laurel appears in legends and folklore across various cultures, and its aromatic and medicinal properties have been exploited from ancient times to the present day.
Tips for harvesting and preserving bay leaves
- Harvest: The leaves can be collected at any time of year. To best enjoy their aroma, it's best to do so in spring or fall.
- Drying: It is recommended to leave the leaves in a ventilated and shaded place, spread out and not piled up, to prevent them from losing quality.
- Conservation: Once dry, they should be stored in airtight containers and protected from light and moisture.
The bay leaf, in addition to its culinary, ornamental, and symbolic value, is a resilient plant that can become an excellent ally for beautifying gardens, preparing aromatic recipes, and taking advantage of some of its medicinal uses, as long as it is used with knowledge and moderation. Its ancient presence in culture and its symbolism remain, maintaining it as one of the most valued plants in the Mediterranean region.